511 Overview

Get 511 Overview

• What is 511?
• What is 511TampaBay?
• Who should use it?
• How do I access it?

511 is now considered to be America's traveler information number. The Federal Communications Commission designated 511 as the single traffic information telephone number for use by states and local jurisidictions on July 21, 2000. Since then, many states and cities have implemented 511 traffic information services to benefit travelers, and eventually the single-number service should be available nationwide. The service is provided free of charge.

Starting in September 2004, Tampa Bay area travelers will be able to use 511 services to obtain real-time traffic conditions and other information. In addition, they will be able to access the information on the www.511tampabay.com website. The service is being provided by the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) District 7 as part of the Tampa Bay SunGuide Program. Information will be provided for Hernando, Hillsborough, Manatee, Pasco, Pinellas, Polk and Sarasota counties.

Travelers can dial 511 to access current information for specific routes and roadway segments, including anticipated travel delays, traffic accidents, roadway blockages and lane closures. The website will also incorporate motion images from traffic cameras, e-mail alerts, links to stakeholder websites, public transportation information and customer feedback.

Roadside sensors anonymously monitor traffic along portions of the the Tampa Bay area interstate network including I-275, I-4 and I-75 using approximately 100 solar powered, wireless sensors to gather lane-by-lane data on speeds, lane occupancy and vehicle counts. The data permits the calculation of travel times which are refreshed at 60-second intervals. This Advanced Traveler Information System is a joint effort of the US DOT, FDOT and Mobility.

The 511TampaBay system will feature advanced voice-activated technology. After a motorist calls 511, the system will respond to voice commands to provide information for a specific route, allowing drivers to keep their eyes on the road and their hands on the steering wheel. The system will be operational on a 24/7 basis.

511 Tampa Bay delivers real-time traffic information for the Tampa Bay Area to you via phone or website.

The 511 Tampa Bay web site and telephone service provides you with access to state-of-the-art traveler information including:

• Current Traffic Information for select area roadways and roadway segments
• Mass Transit Information including buses, trains, airports and seaports
• Event Information including schedules for major concerts or sports events
• Public Safety Alerts for the Tampa Bay area
• Live-camera images for select area roadways (web site only)

Commuters

• Avoid getting stuck in traffic congestion on your way home or to the office.
• Call 511 or check the 511tampabay.com website to see if there are any traffic or transit problems that might affect your commute.
• Use My511 to receive e-mail traffic alerts that will notify you automatically if there are any traffic problems on your commute.

Local Residents

• Going to a concert or to the beach? Planning a shopping expedition? Check the 511tampabay.com website or call 511 to see if there are any traffic problems on your route.

Tourists

• Call 511 on the way to your destination or to the airport to see if there are any congested roads to avoid the hassle of being late.

Website

http://www.511tampabay.com

Telephone Service

511 (Tampa area only) or 1-800-576-3886 from anywhere nationwide (continental U.S.)