Description
The 511 traveler information system provides real-time traffic, transit, rideshare, and road closure information, enhancing trip planning and reducing travel uncertainty. MTC currently hosts the 511 system. Collaboration with MTC to provide information for Marin County would improve the reach of the program and its effectiveness for local travelers.
Implementation Details
- Integrate 511 trip planning and incident alerts into local mobility websites and city partner sites through embeddable widgets or QR codes.
- Install informational signage or digital kiosks with 511 trip tools at high-volume Marin Transit stops.
- Partner with Marin County Office of Education and large employers to distribute printed and digital 511 materials in employee and student orientation packets.
- Coordinate with MTC to promote 511 awareness via social media campaigns timed with regional events to inform tourists about local bus routes, traffic, and rideshare options.
Mitigation Potential
Traveler information helps promote transit and ridership options by including platforms that encourage park-and-ride locations, carpool, and vanpool.
For more details, see CAPCOA, T-23. Provide Community-Based Travel Planning, pg. 176-178 for VMT reduction quantification.
Linked Strategies
Equity Considerations
511 access campaigns should prioritize low-income and non-English-speaking communities that may lack real-time transit apps or digital tools. Use signage and printed materials in multiple languages at key transit locations, schools, and community hubs. Ensure kiosk placement and marketing campaigns are equitable and consider internet access disparities.
Funding Sources
Will require additional staff time. Funding sources include the Solutions for Congested Corridors Program (California Transportation Commission), the Advanced Transportation Technologies and Innovative Mobility Deployment (U.S. Department of Transportation & Federal Highway Administration), and the Surface Transportation Block Grant (STBG) & Congestion Mitigation and Air Quality Programs (Metropolitan Transportation Commission).
Implemented in TAM Area
Current TDM Implementation
The 511 traveler information system is managed by the Metropolitan Transportation Commission (MTC) and used for transit planning by Marin Transit, SMART, and Golden Gate Transit. 511 SF Bay provides real-time traffic, transit, and commute information that can be accessed digitally by people traveling in Marin.
TDM Benefit Locations
Collaboration between TAM, local transit agencies, and MTC could improve the utilization and accessibility of information for local travelers. Locations with multiple transit services and high traffic, like San Rafael, Larkspur Landing, and Novato, will especially benefit from data-driven transportation planning and 511 resources.