The MTA (Metropolitan Transportation Authority) in conjunction with NYSDOT (New York State Department of Transportation) announced today that 511, the New York State Travel Information Line can now be dialed regarding issues related to the MTA along with other transportation issues such as traffic, ferries, roads, and bridges. This move is to help streamline customer service, simplify the resolution of customer issues, and help commuters get information in a timely manner. NYSDOT will cover the cost of adding the MTA to their line of services.
Previously there had been 117 different phone numbers from various agencies and departments that customers had to wade through in order to file a complaint, get help with MetroCards or other transit-related issues. Calls to these various numbers were then routed to five different call centers. All these lines have been consolidated into one three-digit number and now passengers can access all transit information though one portal.
Customers can get help through 511 twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week or they can visit the 511 website at 511NY.org. The website includes information about construction, closures, and weather alerts, among other things. The website is user-friendly and it displays construction alerts through Twitter-like updates. When you click on an event, more detailed information is displayed over a map, which pinpoints the construction site and gives specific detours and times of service interruption.
There is also an online trip planner where commuters can access the easiest transportation route available by typing in a starting address and end point address. By clicking for the results you will be given the best carrier (MTA, LIRR, etc.), directions to the closest station, specific trains and the amount of time that your trip will take. You will even to be able to click on a walking map that gives directions to your destination from the exit point of your transit station.
Through the 511 hotline, commuters can access information on not only transit schedules, fares and bus information, they can also access information on MetroCards, rail tickets, and lost and found through voice recognition and interactive menus where they will be directed to the appropriate department. There will not endless options to choose from through a touchtone menu. The MTA will use buses, subway trains, and rail cars to promote this new, free service.
Sources:
One MTA, One Phone Number: 511, MTA.info
Georgia Kral, Need MTA Info? Call 511!, Prospect Heights Patch