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Traveler Information on the Web:
511.idaho.gov

If you’ve read recent Transporter stories about Idaho’s new 511 Traveler Information Service, you already know that 511 are the three simple digits travelers can dial to get winter driving conditions, weather reports, emergency road closures and traffic delays by phone. The same travel information will be available on line at 511.idaho.gov when the service launches in November.

The Web site is designed for easy navigation, and aligns with the overall look and feel of the ITD home page (itd.idaho.gov). Following are some of the features to be found at 511.idaho.gov:

Clickable maps: Users can point and click to get information about specific events on highways. Icons indicate traffic incidents, road or lane closures, and driving alerts. Sections of a highway can be color-coded based on good, fair or bad driving conditions (green, yellow or red, respectively).

Cameras: Images provide indicators of current road and weather conditions at more than 20 locations throughout the state.

Weather: Reports direct from the National Weather Service offer current and forecasted weather conditions. Icons indicate if a weather watch or warning is in effect. Visitors also can opt to get more detailed information via ITD’s Road/Weather Integrated Data System.
Mountain passes: Nineteen mountain passes are included in this reporting section. Pass reports keep travelers updated on road and weather conditions, the current temperature and any restrictions.

Featured 511 partners: Links on the right side of the screen take visitors to Web sites of 511 partners, including the Idaho Division of Commerce and Labor for tourism information, Idaho Parks and Recreation and Idaho State Police. Additional links help users find out about scenic byways and ITD’s historical marker guide.

Additional menu items: Users will find tips for using the 511 system, links to AMBER alerts, photos and facility information about Idaho rest stops, links to online public transit and airport information, as well as links to adjacent states’ traveler information services.

Coming Spring 2006: Construction updates will be part of an expanded 511 system beginning next spring. Another enhancement will include information for commercial vehicle operators, including details about width, height and load limits, and more.