Wyoming DOT joins states offering 511

Oct. 31, 2006

The Wyoming Department of Transportation (WYDOT) has instituted 511 travel information service via telephone, joining the nationwide movement to supply such information through a single three-digit number. There also is an Internet version of the information, available at www.wyoroad.info.

"We're still working out a few remaining technical issues," said Vince Garcia, WYDOT spokesman. "But it's at a point where we the public can begin using and learning the new system, and we are already looking at future additions and improvements to the system."

The Wyoming Department of Transportation (WYDOT) has instituted 511 travel information service via telephone, joining the nationwide movement to supply such information through a single three-digit number. There also is an Internet version of the information, available at www.wyoroad.info.

"We're still working out a few remaining technical issues," said Vince Garcia, WYDOT spokesman. "But it's at a point where we the public can begin using and learning the new system, and we are already looking at future additions and improvements to the system."

Although WYDOT previously offered a telephone road report, its new 511 service includes a voice recognition function allowing callers to speak responses when prompted by the system, or alternatively to enter responses through the telephone keypad. The system will not go statewide immediately--some telephone companies in the state are still not on board--so WYDOT is maintaining its toll-free number, 888/WYO-ROAD for those not able to access 511 and for out-of-state callers.

Wyoming's new 511 system offers other advantages, including substantially increased call capacity, reducing the possibility of receiving a busy signal, even during major storms.

Callers will first hear about any road closures or advisories that are in effect. They then have the option of hearing a condition report for a road that they can specify by route number.

The use of the easily remembered three-digit 511 phone number to provide travel information was approved in July 2000 by the Federal Communications Commission. Since then, the 511 concept has grown rapidly; with Wyoming's entry, 29 systems in 24 states are now operational. The goal is to have 511 implemented nationwide by 2010.

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