New 511 Traveler Information System now available in Wisconsin

December 18, 2008

Dial 511 to receive traffic and road condition information for main highways

Just in time for a major winter storm in the southern half of Wisconsin, there’s a new way to get information about road conditions in Wisconsin: Just dial 511. The Wisconsin Department of Transportation has initiated the launch of a new 511 Traveler Information System, a one-stop source for timely and easily accessible traffic and road condition information on Wisconsin’s main highways, including the Interstate system.

While the new system is being made available to provide basic information, including winter road conditions and incident information, additional features will be available as it evolves.

511 replaces the state’s toll free 1-800 ROAD WIS number with a system that not only provides considerably more information, it provides more than five times the number of lines (increasing from 48 to 267), reducing the possibility that a caller will get a busy signal when seeking important traveler information. As the system expands, more than 1000 lines will be made available, virtually eliminating the possibility of getting a busy signal.

“The 511 Traveler Information System is an enhancement that benefits travelers by providing them with more information than they’ve ever had, not only on Wisconsin’s highway system, but other travel modes, as well,” Wisconsin Department of Transportation Secretary Frank Busalacchi said. “By dialing 511, motorists will know what road conditions are like, if there are any incidents or crashes that may slow their travels, and if there are any lane closures due to road construction.”

The 511 Traveler Information System uses voice recognition software to prompt callers through a list of options that provide information on traffic incidents and road conditions; transit services, including bus, rail, ferry, and taxi providers; roadside services, including rest areas; as well as links to the Division of Motor Vehicles, the State Patrol, sheriff’s departments, and commercial airports. In addition to using voice recognition software, callers can use the keypad on their phones to input information. 

511 also provides a feature that allows all users, or only users in a targeted area, to hear a message about special conditions that may affect their travel or to receive an AMBER Alert. Users can also be linked to traveler information services in Iowa and Minnesota, which also provide 511 services. Michigan and Illinois do not yet offer 511 services.

While 511 service is free, normal cell phone airtime charges apply. Users of the new 511 system are urged not to use it while driving. Call before departing or have someone else in the vehicle make the call. When behind the wheel, the focus should be on DRIVING.

Individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing will be able to access and use the entire system through the Wisconsin Relay Service (available by dialing 711 – and asking the operator to dial the alternate toll-free number: 866/511-WISC [9472]). That number is also available to users whose cell phone provider doesn’t offer direct access to 511.

The system will also allow users to report any discrepancies they notice and provide feedback on the system. During the early stages of the launch, the system may take a little longer to provide information as the computer software pulls together the relevant information, so the DOT is asking for the public’s patience as the system is fine-tuned.

Winter road condition information remains available at the Wisconsin DOT’s Web site.

For more information, contact:
Chris Quesnell
(414) 225-3727, chris.quesnell@dot.state.wi.us

Doug Dembowski
(414) 227-2149, douglas.dembowski@dot.state.wi.us

Mike Goetzman
(608) 266-2520, michael.goetzman@dot.state.wi.us