The state has announced a new initiative to keep motorists informed and safe on the roadways.
It’s called 511PAConnect.
Going forward, when personnel from the PA Turnpike and PennDOT identify a potential long-term closure, they will alert staff at the 24-hour Commonwealth Watch and Warning Center at the PA Emergency Management Agency. They will then issue an initial location-based alert to motorists in the affected area.
Motorists who receive the alert will be able to register for automatic text messages or phone call updates.
“People being stuck on roadways due to an accident isn’t a new problem, but we’re using modern technology to keep motorists informed about the status of accident cleanup and highway reopening,” said Governor Tom Wolf. “This connection with motorists will also allow us to have a clearer picture of who is sitting in a vehicle and where they are, so we can better plan for the use of our resources.”
In January of 2016, a 16-mile stretch of the Pennsylvania Turnpike shut down after a tractor trailer jackknifed during a snow storm, stranding thousands of people for nearly 24 hours.
“We certainly recognize that it can be stressful for travelers caught in an extended roadway closure, not knowing where they are, worrying how long they may have to sit there,” said PA Turnpike CEO Mark Compton. “At a time like that, just knowing someone is out there who is aware of your predicament can be a comfort; and the updates and safety messages we push out through this tool help to make stranded travelers feel connected.”