In The News | In The News From Governing Magazine's Guide to Technology Award Winners, November 2004 issue: High-Tech Highs Recent awards programs recognize information technology initiatives that bring efficiencies to state and local government. By MELISSA DAVENPORT TOP SPOTS This year�s technology awards from Public Technologies Inc. cover local efforts in a wide range of program areas. TRANSPORTATION In their search for bigger, brighter and more reliable signage, Phoenix traffic engineers started using �Never Fail� signs. The signs have backup bulbs built in and sign faces that are eight times more reflective than standard, even when not illuminated. A mechanism in the signs alerts engineers when a part needs replacing. Modesto, California, engineers used state-of-the-art technology to synchronize and retime the city�s traffic signals, easing congestion and travel times. * * highlighting by webmaster. © Minagar & Associates, Inc. All Rights Reserved.