Kentucky Drops 511 for Online Traffic and Road Information System
Truckers looking for help navigating Kentucky’s roads now can use Goky.ky.gov, an online traffic and roadway information portal that has replaced the traditional 511 travel and weather phone system.
Goky.ky.gov provides travelers access to up-to-date information regarding traffic conditions via Waze as well as construction activity, and the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet’s response to weather-related events.
In the past two years, call volume to 511 has dropped by nearly 40%, the Transportation Cabinet reported, adding that phasing out the phone system will save taxpayers up to $750,000 annually.
“After almost two decades of 511 use, today’s travelers are bypassing the dated phone line for visual, on-demand road and weather conditions,” Transportation Cabinet Secretary Greg Thomas said in a statement. “Goky.ky.gov is the perfect solution to satisfy the needs of the traveling public while stewarding state dollars.”
Drivers who dial 511 will hear a message informing them of the change. To request help in case of a vehicle breakdown or to report incidents, callers will be directed to call 877-FOR-KYTC. The former 511 smartphone application and the text and e-mail features are no longer operational.
“It seems this is going to be a good thing since 511 is getting outdated, and this will save the state money,” Kentucky Trucking Association President Guy Young told Transport Topics. “When I was with the Georgia Motor Trucking Association, Georgia made this transition pretty seamlessly so I wouldn’t think we’ll get many complaints from our members.”
The Transportation Cabinet’s partnership with Waze Connected Citizens Program provides a free exchange of real-time data every two minutes as well as turn-by-turn navigation.
“Helping drivers have a better experience on Kentucky roads is important but not at the expense of safety,” said Dr. Noelle Hunter, executive director of the Kentucky Office of Highway Safety. “We advise drivers to use GoKY to plan ahead before they drive. To avoid distracted driving, ask your passenger to report delays and incidents using Waze.”
