511 Wisconsin shows modern real-time look
The Wisconsin WisDOT has unveiled a new 511 Wisconsin logo, for its free, easy-to-use traveler information service. Entering its 15th winter season, the 511 Wisconsin platform reflects a handful of service enhancements, all designed to help keep drivers safe.
“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. “We’ve already seen snow in parts of the state, so 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.”
The 511 Wisconsin Traveler Information System is the state’s official source for trusted roadway conditions and traffic impacts, across Wisconsin. Under the new 511 Wisconsin logo, online at 511wi.gov or via the 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.
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.
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, the WisDOT leveraged technology in January 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.
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.
“Our control room staff work diligently, 24/7, yearround, 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.”
Users can still dial 511 to access travel information; however, as technology continues to evolve, the traveling public is encouraged to “know before you go,” with the 511 Wisconsin app or online, at 511wi.gov.
