RICHMOND—Stuck in traffic? Looking to avoid construction delays while you are planning your trip? Seeking public transportation alternatives to improve your commute? Thanks to an improved 511 telephone information system, getting the latest details about traveling Virginia’s highways just got easier.

The Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) has upgraded its 511 system to reflect improvements suggested from users. 511 Virginia is a one-stop traffic information center where motorists can find out the latest information about road conditions, construction delays and other incidents that will impact their travels. As of Aug. 1, the new phone system will include:

• Improved voice-recognition software


• A better menu structure to make traffic information easier to find, reducing the time it takes to navigate the voice-recognition menus


• New features such as bridge and tunnel information, public transportation options and emergency messages


• Easier navigation to the most-used features of the 511 system

“511 represents a significant tool to help ease congestion, improve safety and provide us a way to keep drivers informed about real-time traffic and travel information before they leave home and while they are on the road,” said VDOT Commissioner David. S. Ekern. “Keeping Virginia moving is about more than paving roads and patching potholes. By providing accurate and timely traveler information through 511, highway message signs and radio broadcasts, we are able to maximize the efficiency of our current highway network and keep motorists safe while they are on the road.”

VDOT launched its 511 system statewide in February 2005, after piloting the program in the Shenandoah Valley. Since its inception in 2002 as Travel Shenandoah, 511 Virginia has received 3.7 million calls and 1.4 million Web site visits. Virginia is one of about 30 states currently offering a 511 system, providing one number to call for traffic information around the country.

Motorists can dial 5-1-1 from any landline or cell phone in Virginia. Those calling from out of state can also access the system via a new toll-free number, (866) MY511VA [(866) 695-1182]. The same traveler information, along with additional features such as maps and trip-planning resources, is available at www.511Virginia.org.

The 511 system is part of VDOT’s continuing focus to maximize the number of vehicles that can travel on existing Virginia highways while addressing the congestion in Northern Virginia, Hampton Roads and other urban regions. Through strategic investments in traveler information programs, a focus on emergency response, coordinating transportation and land-use planning, and a partnership with public transportation and transit agencies, VDOT is using several strategies to address today’s transportation issues. The travel information and assistance programs are an integral part of VDOT’s congestion management efforts, along with developing additional road improvements and multi-modal transportation programs to address future transportation needs.

The 511 system improvements will continue as VDOT collects customer feedback through research programs and as users leave recorded messages or send correspondence about 511.

“We are listening to the hundreds of comments we receive each month and looking to help our customers, the motorists of Virginia and those who are passing through the commonwealth, to have safer, more reliable travels,” Ekern said.

For more information about 511 and other transportation-related information, visit www.511Virginia.org, or www.VirginiaDOT.org.

Page last modified: Aug. 1, 2007