New Real-Time Traffic Signs Unveiled On I-93

BOSTON (CBS) - Massachusetts highways are starting to move into the 21st century.

The state Department of Transportation unveiled new message boards Monday that will provide real-time traffic information on Interstate 93 from Canton to the New Hampshire border.

Read: Map of sign locations

They'll be out on the road just in time for the 4th of July.

"This gives information to our customers about how long it will take to get from point A to point B along our highway system," Transportation Secretary Richard Davey said at a news conference.

The signs on I-93 will be the first phase of a project to include them on several other major highways across the state, including the Massachusetts Turnpike, Interstates 95, 91 and 495.

The state is also installing cameras to monitor traffic on the Cape.

The new signs uses Bluetooth and cell phone technology to calculate an average travel time to give drivers real-time information.

"The technology's literally calculating the average miles-per-hour that the cars are traveling to see exactly how things are flowing," Davey said.

"If you need to call ahead and say you're going to be late for a meeting, for example, because traffic is so difficult, or you might be home early to pick up the kids, we'll be able to give you that information today, as opposed to wondering, guessing, and praying. We're actually going to give our customers now some real information."

Davey said phase one will cost between $2 million and $3 million.