Wisconsin's Department of Transportation has recently launched an updated version of its winter road conditions website. | pixabay
Wisconsin's Department of Transportation has recently launched an updated version of its winter road conditions website. | pixabay
Wisconsin's Department of Transportation (WisDOT) has recently launched an updated version of its winter road conditions website, 511wi.gov, according to an NBC report.
The Jan. 28 update incorporates the Maintenance Decision Support System (MDSS) technology currently used by the department and county highway departments to make more informed plowing and salting choices, according to a press release from Wisconsin.gov.
“Safety is core to our mission,” WisDOT Secretary Craig Thompson stated in the press release. “We’re proud to find new ways to leverage technology to improve service and give the public a more clear and accurate idea of how to prepare for the drive ahead.”
Additionally, the new system will offer more frequent reporting, with reports from the MDSS being produced twice each hour.
WisDOT began utilizing 511 in 2013. Previously, field personnel were required to manually report winter road conditions.
MDSS creates automated models based on data collected from different locations around the state.
This data is accessible 24 hours a day and includes info from atmospheric and road weather sensors along roadways and at airports, snowplows equipped with Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and the National Weather Service.
The updated system will now monitor more than 14,000 miles of Wisconsin roadways, an increase from the 3,700 miles covered by the previous system.
The new system, accessible at 511wi.gov, became operational on Jan. 31.
WisDOT also advised drivers to take proactive safety measures during winter weather conditions, such as buckling up, avoiding texting and driving, minimizing travel during active storms when possible and remaining a minimum of 200 feet behind any snowplow that is removing snow or ice.
Additionally, drivers were advised to take their vehicle to the shoulder or a safe area away from the road if they were colliding, providing the vehicle was still drivable and the driver was not injured.
Individuals interested in learning more about the new system may visit the WisDOT website.
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