Telvent GIT, S.A., has launched Maryland’s “511” Traveler Information Service for the Maryland Department of Transportation State Highway Administration. Maryland’s “511” Traveler Information Service is currently operational and providing information to an average of 14,000 callers and web site visitors each week.

The services feature an automated Interactive Voice Response (IVR) telephone system for users to access traffic information by dialing the “511” code and using voice commands, and a companion website showing traffic information and live traffic cameras via a map-based interface over the internet.

Through the “511” service, travelers now have access to real-time traffic and travel-related news to help better plan trips and avoid traffic congestion. The service provides travelers with information on traffic jams, incidents, road construction and weather-related delays, and provides links to the state’s transit systems, airports and tourist attractions. It also has a unique customization feature that allows users to identify routes they travel regularly. Once users have identified their route, the system will immediately provide them with updates when they log on the website or call the IVR system.

Telvent will continue to provide maintenance and system support for the project, as well as add additional features identified by the Maryland State Highway Administration to enhance the “511” service. Potential service enhancements that will be considered include a text alert system to alert users when traffic problems occur on their identified routes. Telvent has implemented a text alert system as part of the Pennsylvania “511” service.

According to Telvent’s chairman and CEO, Ignacio Gonzalez, “We are happy to have contributed to this joint effort to help enhance the convenience of travelers in Maryland. We look forward to continuing our relationship with the Maryland State Highway Administration through ongoing system support and future additions to the ‘511’ service.”

In addition to the “511” service, Telvent has won contracts for work with Maryland on various ITS projects for nearly 20 years including implementation of the first Internet-based, statewide automated traffic management system in the U.S. The system is available to the public and SHA staff through the State’s CHART (Coordinated Highway Action Response Team) website. These Maryland projects exemplify Telvent’s leadership role in the North American transportation industry.