For the Tomahawk Leader
WISCONSIN – The Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT) last month unveiled a new logo for its free traveler information service.
A release from WisDOT said 511 Wisconsin’s new logo “brings a modern look to real-time travel information.”
WisDOT said the 511 Wisconsin platform, entering its 15th winter season, “reflects a handful of service enhancements, all designed to help keep drivers safe.”
“The 511 Wisconsin Traveler Information System is the state’s official source for trusted roadway conditions and traffic impacts across Wisconsin,” WisDOT stated, explaining that by visiting www.511wi.gov or by using the 511 Wisconsin mobile app, the public can access real-time travel information across the state, including road conditions, traffic speeds, live video feeds from traffic cameras, message boards and more.
“Safety is a top priority on Wisconsin highways as we continue to provide a high-quality 511 Wisconsin travel information system to readily share traffic information with Wisconsinites and visitors,” said WisDOT Secretary Craig Thompson. “Now is the time to get vehicles ready for winter driving, bookmark the 511 website and download our free 511 Wisconsin app. We are committed to helping drivers make informed decisions about their travel plans.”
Since it was first launched in 2009, 511 Wisconsin has continued to develop its web and smartphone capabilities to provide direct access to up-to-date traffic information throughout the state. The 511 Wisconsin mobile app was first released in 2015, and there are more than 270,000 combined downloads for Android and Apple devices.
WisDOT noted that within the last two years, 511 Wisconsin has been upgraded to include the state’s network of more than 500 traffic cameras to stream video.
“In addition, WisDOT leveraged technology in Jan. 2022 to share winter road conditions for more than 14,000 miles of roadway, which is updated at least twice hourly, 24 hours a day,” WisDOT stated.
The WisDOT Traffic Management Center (TMC) oversees 511 Wisconsin to populate the website and mobile app with current information based on notifications from law enforcement and other first responders. On average, the TMC handles more than 38,000 incidents each year, according to WisDOT.
“Our control room staff work diligently 24/7 year-round to ensure drivers are aware of upcoming conditions on Wisconsin roads,” said WisDOT TMC Supervisor Randy Hoyt. “Each year, roughly half a million users go online to 511 Wisconsin to get the latest traffic information. It’s an invaluable resource with various features that can help drivers best plan their route to work, school or another destination.”
“No matter the time or season, WisDOT reminds motorists to buckle up and put their phone down – every trip, every time,” WisDOT stated. “Plan ahead and know before you go with www.511wi.gov for updates on road conditions, traffic cameras, incidents and locations of construction work.”