12/11/2008
511 now accessible through Mobile Web devices
BOISE - The
Idaho Transportation Department this fall introduced a new application of 511
Traveler Services specifically for motorists who can access the Web
from their mobile device, including newer cell phones that include Web
browsers.
To
reduce download time, and associated charges, ITD limits information
available through Mobile Web to route reports and camera images. To use
either feature, simply input 511.idaho.gov in the devices Web browser address using your key pad or keyboard as you would type text messages.
The same highway segment reports and camera images available on the Web are available on Mobile Web.
As with cell phone calls, users of Mobile Web services are advised not
to access information while driving. Either have a passenger retrieve
the information or pull off the highway into a safe location away from
traffic to check the Mobile Web.
Mobile Web home page
A scrolling banner appears across the top of the screen only when there
are road closures or blockages on any routes. When more than one
closure or blockage is present on any route, the number of reports is
shown in parentheses after the route number. Moving the mouse over the
banner causes the banner to stop. Clicking on one of the routes in the
banner links to the reports affecting that route.
Route reports
Route reports allow users to view reports currently affecting
interstates, U.S. highways, and state highways. Routes can be selected
from a list of "popular routes," or by entering a route number in the
search box, or selecting from a full list of routes arranged in
numerical order. The most popular routes in the state are listed first,
for easy access.
A simple search may also be performed by entering the route number,
with or without a prefix, and pressing the "search" button. For
example, a search for "I-15," "I 15," "Route 15," or "15" will all be
recognized. If more than one route is found, select the desired route
from the search results.
Route sections
Some longer routes are divided into multiple sections, for easier
viewing. When a route has multiple sections, the number of reports
affecting each section is listed, along with any closures or blockages
affecting that section. When viewing the full list of routes across the
state, the number of reports and closures/blockages is provided
alongside each route.
Reports
are listed in geographical order within each route from south to north
or from west to east depending on the overall direction of the selected
route. Urgent reports, such as closures and blockages, are indicated
with bold text.
Cameras
Images captured by cameras across the state can be viewed by clicking
on a camera name. Cameras are arranged by route, and are in ascending
order by milepost within each route. Cameras owned by ITD are easily
viewed. Cameras not owned by ITD may be difficult to view on some older
mobile devices.