Skip to main content

Crowd-sourced data feed enhances traffic monitoring

In the US, NaviGAtor 511, Georgia’s traveller information system, has partnered with Waze to provide enhanced traffic information. Waze, a crowd-sourced social GPS and real-time traffic application for smartphones and Android phones, will provide enhanced traffic data to the current 511 system, and create a special 511 user group, specifically for Georgia travelers, within the existing Waze mobile app. The arrangement was provided for under an existing marketing contract with Iteris, the firm that has opera
November 20, 2012 Read time: 2 mins
In the US, 6896 NaviGAtor 511, Georgia’s traveller information system, has partnered with 6897 Waze to provide enhanced traffic information. Waze, a crowd-sourced social GPS and real-time traffic application for smartphones and Android phones, will provide enhanced traffic data to the current 511 system, and create a special 511 user group, specifically for Georgia travelers, within the existing Waze mobile app.

The arrangement was provided for under an existing marketing contract with Iteris, the firm that has operated and maintained the Georgia NaviGAtor 511 system since 2006.

NaviGAtor 511 is a sponsor-supported, free public service of the Georgia Department of Transportation that enhances transportation mobility, safety, and efficiency by providing travellers with real-time, route-specific travel information and 24/7 access to live operators.  The system delivers current information on incidents, road construction, and weather conditions statewide. In the Atlanta metro market area, NaviGAtor 511 not only provides congestion information, but also access to HERO (Highway Emergency Response Operator) motorist assistance.

Waze collects traffic data from its 29 million users, or “Wazers,” worldwide, who augment real-time traffic conditions through citizen-based traffic, hazard, and incident reporting. The data will then be verified by Georgia DOT and populated to NaviGAtor 511’s website and phone system.

The Waze smart phone application is available for free from the app store on iPhone, iPad and iPod touch or online.  In addition to real-time, crowd-sourced traffic data, Waze offers a number of hands-free features, such as: voice-guided turn-by-turn navigation; voice-activated user reporting of road hazards, construction, incidents, congestion; user-set voice commands; and automated verbal notification of upcoming incidents or conditions.

“Commuters know that they can help each other reduce the stress and inconvenience of traffic simply by turning on our app,” said Chris Butler, director of business development for Waze. “Moving forward, we’re excited to be working with Georgia DOT and Iteris on the NaviGAtor 511 system to offer these expanded benefits and increased exposure to the Georgia Wazers.”

For more information on companies in this article

Related Content

  • With C-ITS we can get ourselves connected
    June 27, 2025
    Workzones need to be safer for drivers and workers – and the technology exists to harmonise safety with mobility needs, says Swarco’s Daniel Lenczowski
  • Wyoming develops open-source RSU monitoring app
    September 16, 2019
    A connected vehicle project in the US state of Wyoming has developed an open-source application to allow third parties to monitor safety along the I-80 highway. The Wyoming Department of Transportation (WYDoT) Connected Vehicle Pilot includes the deployment of 75 roadside units (RSUs) along 400 miles of I-80. WYDoT’s app allows authorised transportation management centre (TMC) operators to monitor and manage each RSU on the route – and can also be used to let the travelling public know what is happening.
  • Wyoming develops open-source RSU monitoring app
    September 16, 2019
    A connected vehicle project in the US state of Wyoming has developed an open-source application to allow third parties to monitor safety along the I-80 highway. The Wyoming Department of Transportation (WYDoT) Connected Vehicle Pilot includes the deployment of 75 roadside units (RSUs) along 400 miles of I-80. WYDoT’s app allows authorised transportation management centre (TMC) operators to monitor and manage each RSU on the route – and can also be used to let the travelling public know what is happening.
  • ITS needs data highways
    November 18, 2014
    Transport and traffic data is on the increase but there must be an integrated data highway to derive the maximum ITS benefits, argues Deutsche Telekom. From public transport operators recording increasingly precise and comprehensive data on their vehicle’s position and driving behaviour to local authorities using RFID and video systems to control traffic on their streets and highways, the amount of traffic data is growing rapidly.