Senators Gilbert, Kuipers, Van Woerkom, Garcia, Allen, Goschka, Cropsey and Toy offered the following resolution:

            Senate Resolution No. 160.

            A resolution to urge the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) to establish a 511 traveler information network in Michigan.

            Whereas, The Federal Communications Commission designated, in 2000, 511 as a 3-digit telephone number that travelers can call for information on traffic and road conditions. If implemented in Michigan, information available via 511 would allow travelers to make informed decisions about travel routes and times based on knowledge about construction, weather conditions, and traffic congestion. Information could be easily accessible through a 511 system as the number is easy to remember and dial; and

            Whereas, The 511 information system would be built on data that is already collected by the MDOT in Southeastern Michigan. Michigan's Intelligent Transportation System (ITS) is used to collect real-time freeway information on traffic congestion, accidents, and weather. Providing traffic information to the public via a 511 number is efficient and helps make the most of the information collected by the ITS; and

            Whereas, Twenty-eight active 511 systems were in place as of May 31, 2006, and many of these are statewide systems, including Florida, Utah, Virginia, Minnesota, and Iowa. More than 54 million calls have been placed on 511 systems nationwide since its inception. MDOT has studied the feasibility of implementing a 511 system in the Detroit Metropolitan Area and is currently working on an implementation plan; and

            Whereas, A 511 system benefits both our state transportation system and travelers. Travelers gathering information from a 511 system use the roadway more efficiently, putting less strain on the transportation infrastructure. In addition, studies have shown that traffic moves more safely when a 511 system is available to drivers; now, therefore, be it

            Resolved by the Senate, That we urge the Michigan Department of Transportation to establish a 511 traveler information network in Michigan; and be it further

            Resolved, That copies of this resolution be transmitted to the State Transportation Commission, the Director of the Michigan Department of Transportation, and Governor Granholm.