Updated system will tailor traffic info to commuters

Drivers will get real-time traffic information catered to their commutes on mobile phone applications and through email alerts as part of the next-generation 511 Virginia network that will be live in six months.

The new features are included in a contract the state Department of Transportation awarded Wednesday to Iteris Inc., a California-based traffic management company, to develop and operate an enhanced 511 traveler information system over the next five years at a cost of $1.5 million per year.

511 Virginia provides Web and phone updates on road conditions, construction delays and other incidents that affect travel. The service gets about 200,000 calls each month.

Travel alerts that are now offered will be enhanced by coupling email alerts with free mobile apps.

"For example, you could trace your daily commute route with the mobile application and have the 511 system notify you of any incident along your commute path," VDOT spokeswoman Shannon Marshall said in an email.

Other enhancements will include actual travel times on certain roadways, improved voice recognition software, streamlined menus for faster access to information and additional real-time dynamic message signs.

State officials also expect the new contract to offset the $1.5 million to $2.1 million annual operating costs of 511 Virginia. Iteris will sell sponsorships on the Web, traffic video feeds and 511 road signs. They are projected to generate about $10 million over the life of the contract.

"To improve our transportation infrastructure and provide real-time traffic information, we must continue to explore non-traditional funding sources," Gov. Bob McDonnell said in a news release.

Since it launched in 2002, 511 Virginia has received more than 11 million calls and 8 million Website visits. The system can be accessed by calling 511 from any land line or cellphone in Virginia, or by visiting www.511Virginia.org

Debbie Messina, (757) 446-2588, debbie.messina@pilotonline.com