Governor Jon S. Corzine today visited the new Statewide Traffic Management Center in Woodbridge and introduced state-of-the-art traffic management tools including the real time traffic Web site, 511 telephone system and Personalized Traveler Alerts. These services will minimize the impact of traffic incidents and help motorists to save fuel and navigate New Jersey’s roadways.

“The Statewide Traffic Management Center optimizes technology in order to improve government efficiency, reduce traffic congestion, and help motorists to save time and fuel,” said Governor Corzine. “As Memorial Day weekend and the summer travel season approach, I encourage motorists to take advantage of the NJDOT’s new travel tools. The 511 telephone system, NJ511.info Web site and Personalized Traveler System can enable motorists to avoid congestion and plan efficient routes.”

The new, state-of-the-art Statewide Traffic Management Center will enable the New Jersey Department of Transportation (NJDOT), the New Jersey Turnpike Authority and the New Jersey State Police to improve their management of and response to accidents, adverse weather, special events and congestion. The 26,000 square foot facility operates 24 hours per day, seven days per week. Up to 40 staff from all three agencies view video images from 420 traffic surveillance cameras on an 18 by 50 foot video wall. In addition, staff can remotely access variable message signs, traffic signals, highway advisory radio systems, travel time systems and weather information systems.

“This new facility will help NJDOT and the Turnpike Authority to create a seamless statewide transportation network by integrating agency functions and sharing services,” said Transportation Commissioner and New Jersey Turnpike Authority Chairman Kris Kolluri. “The State of New Jersey is using technology to relieve congestion and helping motorists to save fuel by avoiding traffic jams.”

Governor Corzine announced several new services that use technology to provide information to motorists and improve traffic management. NJDOT today launched its new real time traffic Web site, NJ511.info, which offers interactive maps and displays traffic incidents. The Google Maps-based Web site offers motorists real time traffic conditions on State highways, interstate highways, the Garden State Parkway and the New Jersey Turnpike. The Web site highlights incidents, construction, weather and special events. NJ511.info also includes an interactive traffic camera page.

In addition, Governor Corzine encouraged motorists to dial 511 for voice-activated telephone information regarding traffic, weather and construction. Users can request updated information on highways and geographic areas.

Governor Corzine also announced the upcoming launch of NJDOT’s Personalized Traveler Service, which will send real time road condition updates and alerts to motorists’ cell phones, email accounts and personal digital assistants. This free service will allow motorists to sign up to receive travel alerts about traffic incidents and construction that may affect their daily commutes. Subscribers will receive information pertaining to state and interstate highways, the Garden State Parkway and the New Jersey Turnpike. This service will be available in summer 2008.

For additional information on the State of New Jersey’s traffic management services, please visit www.NJ511.info or www.njcommuter.com.

ALL ABOUT NJ511: 

NJ511 is a free phone and web service that consolidates traffic and transportation information into a one-stop resource for commuters and motorists in the Garden State. NJ511 provides up-to-the-minute traffic conditions and its available seven days a week, 365 days a year.

In 2000, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) designated 511 as the national travel information telephone number. Twenty three states currently offer 511 services. Nationally, 511 systems are available to over 128 million people, or 47 percent of the population. Over 100 million 511 calls have been made since its inception.

Traffic and travel information offered on the NJ511 web site and telephone phone service is managed by a partnership of public agencies led by the New Jersey Department of Transportation, New Jersey Turnpike Authority, New Jersey State Police, and the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey. Additional data is provided by traffic monitoring devices such as traffic cameras and travel time sensors. Local law enforcement agencies, fire departments and emergency medical technicians also contribute information for the NJ511 system.

NJ511 provides motorists information about accidents, incidents, and unusual delays on Interstate and State highways, the New Jersey Turnpike and the Garden State Parkway. If offers real time traffic and travel information seven days a week, 365 days a year. In addition, NJ511 broadcasts Amber alerts and other emergency messages.

NJ511 greatly benefits motorists and commuters. By using NJ511, motorists can make informed decisions about planning trips, alternate routes and departure times. This improves individual drivers’ trips and helps reduce congestion and improve safety on state highways.

Sometimes motorists don’t have access to a computer, but need transportation information fast. In such cases, dialing 511 on the telephone can help motorists find all the necessary information regarding area road conditions.

Q. Is there a cost to access NJ511? 
A. There is no charge for the service itself, but calling 511 from a landline phone will cost the same as making any local call; wireless phone users will incur no extra charges by calling 511. However, the call will use minutes on wireless calling plans, and roaming charges may apply. 

Q. How do I use the NJ511 system?
A. Simply dial 511, or, the toll free number 1.866.511.NJDT (6538). An automated voice system will prompt callers to choose from options such as Traffic, Routes and Urban Areas. Callers can respond verbally or by using the telephone’s keypad.

In order to improve safety, the New Jersey Department of Transportation recommends that motorists call 511 before driving, pull over while driving, or ask a passenger to call 511. New Jersey law states that using a hand-held communications device while driving a vehicle is a primary offense. Authorities will issue a $100 fine to any driver caught violating this law. Although it is discouraged, drivers may use a hands-free device if it does not interfere with standard safety equipment.

Q. Why can’t I connect to NJ511?
A. Most landline and wireless carriers have agreed to provide access to the NJ511 service. Motorists who cannot access NJ511 should contact their local providers directly in order to transfer calls to NJ511. However, certain office telephone systems cannot access this new three-digit code. Additionally, some pay telephone services may not have programmed 511 services yet. If your carrier or pay phone provider does not offer 511, you may dial 1.866.511.6538 to access NJ511.

If your office telephone is not programmed to allow 511 dialing, consult your office manager or telephone system administrator. Office Managers and Technical Support personnel can allow for the use of the 511 code by enabling the transmission of the 511 digits (3-digits instead of 7, 10 or 11) when dialed from Private Branch Exchange (PBX). Office Managers and Technical Support personnel should send the 511 digits to the local telephone carrier in order to connect to the 511 service.