511 Traveler Information Services

Overview
These 511 services provide information] on traffic and travel conditions via the [[telephone (using an interactive voice response automated system) and the Internet.

DOT initiated the development of 511 Traveler Information Services by asking the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to set aside a three-digit telephone number nationwide for traveler information services. FCC granted this request in July 2000 and issued a rule on 511 stating that DOT's role was to "facilitate ubiquitous deployment" of these services.

Source

 * Intelligent Transportation Systems: Improved DOT Collaboration and Communication Could Enhance the Use of Technology to Manage Congestion, at 13.