If drivers can take their eyes off their mobile phones later this year, they may notice a different, easier to read text message along road shoulders in Corrales: speed monitors that flash warnings to approaching cars.

“We have received notification that we have been approved for Highway Safety Improvement Program funds for speed monitoring signs,” Village Administrator John Avila reported May 22. 

Exactly where the 10 speed displays may be placed was not reported. However, notice of the approval from the highway department’s Tony Abbo for the “digital speed warning reader board signs” in Corrales mentioned Loma Larga, West Meadowlark, Don Julio Road near “Access A” and Corrales Road. 

Avila said before the speed monitor trailers can be installed, Village government must sign an agreement with the N.M. Department of Transportation to maintain the signs. Such a draft agreement is expected to be discussed at the June 19 council meeting.

Abbo’s e-mail to Corrales Planning and Zoning Administrator Cyndie Tidwell said each sign will cost $10,225, to be covered by the state program.

Abbo also noted that 92 percent of auto crashes in Corrales occur during daylight hours. A three-year review of crashes (October 1, 2008 to September 30, 2011) showed 221 accidents “of which 53 have injuries totaling 74 people injured, zero fatality crashes.”