511 Information Now Online

PIERRE, SD – People who want travel information for the Thanksgiving weekend now have two ways of getting it. In addition to calling 511 for current road conditions, weather reports and forecasts, they can check the internet for information.

“We’re always looking for ways to get information to drivers so they can make safe travel decisions. The advantage of having the information online is that travelers can now use the Internet to immediately check conditions for their entire route, before they begin their trip,” says Dave Huft, SDDOT Research Manager. “We’re excited to make this available in time for one of the busiest holidays on our highways.”

The online version of 511, located at SDDOT.com, shows a map of South Dakota. Major highways are color coded to indicate various road conditions, including regular season conditions, wet or slippery surfaces, road closures, areas of limited visibility and road construction. By clicking on any state highway, detailed information about the road condition and the forecast appears. A more detailed map with additional state highways is available by clicking on the lower left hand map.

South Dakota was the fifth state in the nation to establish a statewide 511 service. Since it was introduced three years ago, the system has logged over 600,000 calls and provided information for over one million requests.

511 is a free service from any cell phone, landline or internet connection. Both the online version and the call in 511 number provide information for several neighboring states, including North Dakota, Minnesota, Montana, Nebraska and Kansas.

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