Dial 511 For Updates On Traffic, Transit

NEW YORK, NY [NY1] — There’s 911 in case of emergencies and 311 if you need help from the city. Now city residents can dial 511 to know the best way to get around.

The New York State Department of Transportation unveiled “511,” its new traffic and transit help line Thursday.

Travelers can get real time updates on road conditions as well as traffic reports.

Officials say it will soon include construction alerts and weather updates. They also hope to provide information on alternate routes as well as alternate modes of transportation.

“We’re the only agency with a true statewide perspective of transportation operations,” said 511 project director Todd Westhuis. “And a number of events both for us, and the MTA down here response to emergency events, forced us to realize that we need to do a better job of providing information to our traveling public.”

Officials say the system will be up and running statewide by January 1.

Travelers can call 511 or visit 511ny.org.

Customers can also subscribe to the free 511 text service.