The Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development (DOTD) has upgraded the 511 Traveler Information Service in conjunction with the start of the 2009 hurricane season.

It is a system that provides travelers with round-the-clock, real-time traffic and road condition updates via the phone and the Internet.

The web-based 511 system improvements include enhanced maps that use Google applications and the ability to view reports by route or by region.

More cameras are added to the system to further streamline the traveler information on DOTD’s website.

The phone-based system has been improved by providing detailed location descriptions and simplified user navigation.

In addition, future reports application will be developed for users to view upcoming events up to two weeks in advance.

DOTD Secretary William D Ankner said that the 511 Traveler Information Service was an important travel tool that helps drivers to make convenient and safe driving decisions.

The department works with Louisiana State Police to keep the system updated with information about incidents that significantly affect traffic.