Nextel supports flood ravaged bridge re-opening.

FRESNO, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--March 20, 1995--Nextel Communications announced today that it is providing critical wireless communications support to key California agencies, including the California Department of Transportation and the California Highway Patrol, in the massive project to re-open

Nextel's unique integrated communications system is playing a major role in the round-the-clock major restoration efforts following the collapse of the Arroyo Pasajero bridge. Users can immediately switch from a cellular call to the instantaneous contact that two way radio service provides, allowing restoration teams to efficiently talk to the several groups involved in this critical project.

"Good communications were essential to the early success of this critical project and we appreciate Nextel coming through for us. We greatly appreciate Nextel contributing their time and equipment," said Heigo Orav, deputy director of Construction for District No. 6 for the California Department of Transportation. Nextel provided portable communicators to the Department of Transportation and the California Highway Patrol for use by engineers, surveyors, bridge inspectors, contractors and rescue workers.

The bridge re-opening project, originally estimated to take weeks, was completed in days due to 24 hour a day efforts and the ability to instantly communicate. Nextel provided wide-area communications capability linking multiple agencies to each other and to geographically diverse points across California.

Nextel is building the nation's first integrated all-digital wireless communications system that combines cellular, two-way radio and advanced messaging in one unit. Nextel's service area in California covers approximately 30 million state residents. Nextel is located in Rutherford, N.J.

CONTACT: Nextel Communications Inc.

Ernie Bayless, 209/233-2222