Jackson, Miss. – In preparation for the increase of travelers, the Mississippi Department of Transportation (MDOT) is putting additional effort into monitoring the state’s highways to make sure everyone is able to enjoy the season safely with their family and friends.
Using traffic cameras, congestion analysis technology, radar and temperature sensors, along with local agency communication, MDOT’s Traffic Management Center (TMC) observes the most traveled highways in the state to ensure the safety and mobility of the traveling public. MDOT’s TMC is the information hub or nerve center of Mississippi’s highway management system. Information is collected, verified and disseminated to necessary stakeholders like the media, other state and local agencies, and the traveling public. The center is staffed 24/7, 365 days a year.
Travelers can access the most up-to-date traffic information by visiting MDOTtraffic.com or the free MDOTtraffic app. Mississippi 511 is a third option travelers can use to get 24/7, route-specific information.
The TMC releases traveler through:
- Traffic alerts sent via email or text to people who sign up on MDOTTraffic.com.
- The MDOT smartphone app, available in the App Store and Google Play Store.
- Travel information and alerts on Mississippi 511.
- Dynamic Message Signs.
- Highway Advisory Radios.
- Social media properties, such as Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn and YouTube.
MDOT’s TMC will also be tracking Santa as he makes his way across the state on Christmas Eve. To join MDOT in following Santa’s progress, like and follow @MississippiDOT on Facebook, Twitter andInstagram, and by following the hashtag #SantaInTheSip.
So far in 2016, TMC has sent out:
- 11,605 total traffic alerts, including updates.
- 3,165 crash alerts.
- 1,055 weather alerts.
- 2,200 maintenance and construction alerts.
Using these avenues of communication, MDOT is able to notify the public of concerns that may affect their route to be with friends and family, holiday shopping and everyday commute to work or school. MDOT’s three free travel resources provide an opportunity for Mississippians to be prepared this holiday season.
