The agency has joined with the popular Waze app to provide the navigation feature.
The app also now provides push notifications and alerts, transit and parking information, and it continues to give real-time traffic information on the state’s roads.
The free app can be accessed by downloading the Virginia 511 app at iOS and Android app stores, going to the 511virginia.org website or calling 5-1-1 from any phone in Virginia.
The VDOT offers these instructions on how to get started on the app:
- Open the app, use the search bar (“Where To?”) and find your location.
- Once you’ve chosen your location, travel times for driving and transit options will be provided (travel times provided by Google). Tap an option for detailed directions.
- To navigate to your location, tap on the Waze icon in the directions, and the Waze app will open for navigation to your destination. (Installation of the free Waze app is required to use this feature. If you do not have the Waze app, you will be directed to the App Store. The 511 app will remain open in the background, and you can return to 511 anytime by tapping “VDOT 511” in the upper left corner.)
- Using the map overlays menu at the upper right, you can choose various map options and layers, such as high-priority incidents, road work, traffic cameras, Park and Ride locations, weather closures, message signs, bridge openings, rest areas, Capital Bike Share and special events.
- The main menu in the upper left corner provides travel times for predefined road segments, links to other commuter services, adverse road condition information by locality, a link to the “myVDOT” customer service reporting tool, and a way to email feedback to VDOT.
- Settings can be accessed at the bottom of the main menu (gear icon). This includes an option to sign up for trip notifications (define a recurring trip by arrival time, and receive push notifications based on current traffic).
The app also provides public transit information for Northern Virginia, including Virginia Railway Express (VRE) and Potomac and Rappahannock Transportation Commission (PRTC) bus schedules and routes, along with real-time VRE train locations. VDOT says it plans to expand these services to include more agencies statewide.
For more information on 511, go to virginiadot.org/travel/511.asp.
