The Wisconsin Department of Transportation’s 511 Travel Information System is approaching a major milestone – the one millionth call made to the interactive system since it was established just three years ago. The 511 telephone system and its companion web site, www.511wi.gov, serve as a one-stop source for timely information regarding traffic and road conditions around the state.
“Ensuring that our existing transportation network operates as safely and efficiently as possible remains a top priority, and the many services offered through the 511 Travel Information System and State Traffic Operations Center are crucial to help attain that goal,” said Wisconsin DOT Secretary Mark Gottlieb in the press release. “Especially as we enter another winter season, providing convenient access to road conditions is vital to help motorists make informed travel decisions.”
People who call 511 can use their phone’s keypads or the system’s voice recognition software to access a list of options offering information on traffic incidents and highway conditions, transit and roadside services such as rest areas, as well as links to the Division of Motor Vehicles, State Patrol, sheriff’s departments and commercial airports. The 511 web site offers many of the same services including maps that graphically display winter road conditions, traffic camera images and messages displayed on electronic message boards throughout the state. Since the 511 web service went online January 2009, it has recorded over 3.4 million visits.
The State Traffic Operations Center utilizes a statewide network of pavement sensors, traffic cameras and data gathered from state and county officials to provide up-to-the-minute traffic and travel information. To ensure public safety, drivers should access the 511 system prior to a trip or leave it in the hands of a passenger.
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