A prototype, located along Interstate 80 near Seward, has averaged 100 users per day as it has been tested and modified over the past nine months. The N-View system will include 10 kiosks currently being installed along Interstate 80 as well as 20 kiosks at entry points to each of the nine scenic and historic byways. The 30 kiosks have the potential to influence the travel decisions and routes of more than 500,000 travelers per year on Nebraska's highways and byways. The final decision regarding placement of the 20 kiosks along the byways will be announced in a few weeks.
The weather information on each system will be provided via satellite from the National Weather Service and displayed on weather maps and charts. The touch-screen kiosks are computer-based and are designed to deliver information to the user in the form of video, graphics, or on-screen text.
Nebraska Department of Economic Development Director Richard Baier said, "The N-View kiosks will provide an excellent opportunity for travelers to enhance their experience while in our state. This will encourage travelers to explore various routes by providing information about tourism attractions, events and accommodations. I anticipate that N-View will provide a boost in tourism dollars in cities and towns as well as in rural areas."
John Craig, director of the Nebraska Department of Roads, said, "By presenting real-time weather updates, the weather kiosk also serves as a safety tool for travelers, keeping them informed and potentially reducing weather-related accidents. Anytime we can improve safety, it's a worthy endeavor and the added tourism benefit is icing on the cake."
N-View is the product of a partnership between the Nebraska Department of Economic Development's Division of Travel and Tourism, the Nebraska Department of Roads and Nebraska's nine scenic and historic byways. The Federal Highway Administration funded 80 percent of the project, $240,000, through the National Scenic Byways Program. The Nebraska Division of Travel and Tourism funded the remaining 20 percent of the cost.
