PATRICK-MURRAY ADMINISTRATION ANNOUNCES NEW AND IMPROVED 511 TRAVELER INFORMATION SERVICE
Will provide statewide coverage for first time in 15+ years while saving taxpayers $1.2M annually thanks to partnership with growing MA-based communications-software company

BOSTON - As part of his reform agenda to strengthen customer service, improve efficiency, and save taxpayer dollars, Governor Deval Patrick and the Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT) today announced the launch of a new Massachusetts 511 traveler information service that for the first time is available to travelers throughout the state.

3 Key Steps for Using the New 511 System for the First Time by Phone:

1. Dial 511 from any cellphone.

2. After the introductory message, enter the route numbers of interest to you. For example, for information on Interstate 93, press "93".

3. As reports are being delivered, press 1 to skip a segment, press 2 to skip a route, and press 3 to enter a new route.

  3 Ways to Personalize Routes on the New 511 Service:

1. Simply call 511 and enter the route numbers of interest to you. Travel information for these routes is automatically provided the next time you call, minimizing the need to constantly re-enter your routes again and again. Sendza's system remembers the last three routes you asked for from your last call.

2. Set-up hands-free 511. Go to mass.gov/511, login and choose your routes off a map. The selected routes are used each time you call 511 so no key presses are needed unless you require additional routes.

3. Text or Email alerts sent to you. Same as #2 above, go to mass.gov/511, login and choose your routes off a map. Select "Send Alerts" radio button. You will now receive texts or email alerts on adverse conditions for your selected routes to view.

MassDOT's Online Traffic Resources:

• New 511 Traveler Information Service: Drivers can customize their 511 experience by visiting mass.gov/511 or by using their cell phone to call 511.

• Online Traffic Cameras: mass.gov/511/cameras

• Interactive Map of Planned Construction Events (beta): http://www.massdot.state.ma.us/ERS_Map/ersmap.aspx

For transportation news and updates visit MassDOT at our website: mass.gov/massdot, blog: mass.gov/blog/transportation, or follow MassDOT on twitter.

Sendza has also partnered with MassDOT to provide a free reminder service for RMV customers. To learn more about Sendza, visit Sendza.com.

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