New Jersey unveils new 511 phone system

(Woodbridge) - New Jersey Department of Transportation (NJDOT) Commissioner Kris Kolluri today launched the State's new and improved 511 travel information telephone system. This service will help motorists save fuel, navigate New Jersey's roadways, reduce commuting times and minimize the impact of traffic incidents.

Governor Jon S. Corzine encourages motorists to dial 511 for voice-activated telephone information regarding traffic, weather and construction. Users can request updated traffic information on highways, cities, or hot spots as well as information on EZ Pass.

"As the summer travel season swings into full gear, I encourage motorists to take advantage of the NJDOT's new 511 telephone system, as well as other traffic management technology, to avoid congestion and plan efficient routes," said Governor Corzine.

Motorists who dial 511 will hear information about congestion, incidents or unusual delays on State highways, the New Jersey Turnpike and Garden State Parkway. The service provides motorists with real time traffic and travel information seven days a week, 365 days a year. Traffic and travel information on 511 is managed by a partnership of public agencies led by NJDOT, the New Jersey Turnpike Authority (NJTP), and the New Jersey State Police (NJSP). Traffic information is provided by a variety of sources including local law enforcement agencies, local fire departments and traffic monitoring devices such as traffic cameras and travel time sensors.

New Jersey recently opened a new, state-of-the-art Statewide Traffic Management Center that enables NJDOT, the NJTP and the NJSP to improve management of and response to accidents, adverse weather, special events and congestion. Up to 40 staff members from all three agencies monitor and exchange video images from 420 traffic surveillance cameras located throughout the state on an 18 foot by 50 foot video wall.

NJDOT is offering motorists several other new services that use technology to provide traffic information. NJDOT recently launched a new real-time traffic website, www.511nj.org, which offers interactive maps and displays traffic incidents. The Google Maps-based website offers motorists real time traffic conditions on State highways, interstate highways, the Garden State Parkway and the New Jersey Turnpike. The website highlights incidents, construction, weather and special events. NJ511.info also includes an interactive traffic camera page.

In summer 2008, NJDOT will launch a Personalized Travel Service, which will send free real-time road condition updates and alerts to motorists' cell phones, email accounts and personal digital assistants. Subscribers will receive information pertaining to state and interstate highways, the Garden State Parkway and the New Jersey Turnpike.

For additional information on the State of New Jersey's traffic management services, please visit www.511nj.org or https://nj-dot.nj.gov/transportation/commuter/.