Featured News

When to Travel:  
 

 
Based on past July 4th weekend travel trends in metro Atlanta, you should expect the following:  

• Heavy traffic:  Thursday, July 3 & Sunday, July 6 from 12:00 pm – 8:00 pm 

• Light to normal traffic:  July 4th Holiday 

• Typical congestion:  Tuesday, July 1 through Wednesday, July 2 from 3:00 pm – 7:00 pm and Saturday, July 5 from 5:00 pm – 8:00 pm 

• Post holiday congestion:  Monday, July 7 from 3:00 pm – 7:00 pm 

 

July 4th Weekend Travel Safety Tips:  

1. Move Over, Slow Down – Give space to roadside workers and emergency responders. It’s Georgia law. 

2. Stay Alert for Pedestrians – People may be walking in unexpected areas, so be ready to stop or slow down. 

3. Avoid Distractions – Keep your focus on the road—skip the texting, snacking, or multitasking. 

4. Don’t Drive Impaired – If you're partying, line up a sober ride home through a friend or rideshare service. 

5. Plan Ahead – Check 511GA before you go and have an alternate route in mind just in case. 
    

You can get real-time traffic updates at 511ga.org, through the mobile app, or by following 511GA on Facebook and X. Plan ahead, travel smart, and enjoy a safe and festive July 4th! 

From Georgia DOT:  

“…The Highway Emergency Response Operators (HERO) program will restore active patrols in the overnight hours seven days a week (returning to 24/7 active patrols) and will also restore its full coverage area of nearly 400 miles of interstate highways across metro Atlanta on Tuesday, July 1, 2025.

HEROs have many responsibilities but are primarily responsible for roadway clearance after traffic-related incidents ensuring that normal traffic flow is restored on metro Atlanta interstates. Additionally, the program offers free roadside assistance, including assisting stranded motorists with flat tires, dead batteries, and providing fuel and coolant as needed.”

Remember, call us at 5-1-1 if you need to request HERO, and one of our operators will be available 24/7 to assist you. Stay safe, Georgia! 

For more information, read the full press release here.







 

Summer is a busy time for travel—and for roadwork. Across Georgia, crews are out in full force repairing, repaving, and upgrading infrastructure to improve safety and mobility for all drivers. While these projects are necessary, they can also lead to increased congestion, lane closures, and slower travel times.

511GA is here to help you stay ahead of construction-related delays and travel smarter all summer long.

Here’s how 511GA supports you this construction season:

• Real-Time Alerts: Visit 511ga.org or use the 511GA mobile app to get the latest updates on road closures, work zones, and active construction. 
• Live Traffic Cameras & Maps: Check before you go and avoid congested areas by viewing live traffic conditions throughout the state.
• Custom Route Planning: Use the app’s trip planning tools to map out your route with real-time roadwork information built in.
• Hands-Free Access: Call 511 from your phone to get updates safely while driving—completely voice-enabled and driver-friendly.

As you travel, remember to slow down in work zones, obey all posted signs, and be mindful of workers and equipment. A few extra minutes of caution can save lives. By planning ahead and using 511GA’s free tools, you can avoid delays and help protect our roadway crews. For additional Work Zone Safety tips, click here. Let’s build a safer, stronger Georgia—together!

Here’s how 511GA can help you prepare:

• Check the app or website before you go: See live traffic cameras, congestion, and incident alerts across the state before you head out.
• Know your evacuation routes: Stay ahead of potential storm impacts with up-to-date information by using 511GA evacuation routes tool.
• Use the 511GA Weather tools: Track conditions with our interactive weather radar, stay ahead of dangerous storms with real-time weather alerts, and plan accordingly with our up-to-date local forecasts.
• Stay Updated with 511GA: 511GA, available 24/7-365, provides real-time information on road conditions, traffic, and weather. By visiting 511GA.org or downloading the 511GA app, you can stay informed and #KnowBeforeYouGo.
• Inspect Your Vehicle: Make sure your car is ready for severe weather by checking your tires, brakes, and overall condition. Regular maintenance reduces the risk of breakdowns when you need your vehicle the most.

For more tips on storm preparedness and evacuation planning, visit the Georgia DOT Hurricane Resources page. Don’t wait for the storm to hit—prepare now, stay informed, and travel smart. Trust 511GA to be your reliable companion this hurricane season.
 

 

When to Travel: 
Based on past Memorial Day travel trends in metro Atlanta, motorists should expect the following: 

• Heavy traffic: Wednesday, May 22 – Thursday, May 23 from 12:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. 

• Light to normal traffic: Sunday, May 25 and Memorial Day, Monday, May 26 

• Moderate congestion: Tuesday, May 27 from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. 
   

Memorial Day Travel Safety Tips: 

1. Move Over, Slow Down – Protect roadside workers and responders by following Georgia’s Move Over Law. 

2. Buckle Up – Seat belts save lives. Make sure everyone in your vehicle is buckled up. 

3. Avoid Distracted Driving – Focus on the road. Avoid texting, eating, or other distractions. 

4. Never Drive Impaired – If you're celebrating, designate a sober driver or use a rideshare service. 

5. Plan Ahead – Use 511GA tools to check traffic before heading out and have alternate routes ready. 

For real-time traffic information and updates, visit 511ga.org, download the mobile app, or follow us on Facebook and X. Plan ahead, travel smart, and have a safe and happy Memorial Day weekend! 

 

On May 11, 2025, the Georgia Department of Transportation proudly commemorates 18 years of service through 511GA, Georgia’s #1 source for real-time traffic information. Established in 2007 at the Transportation Management Center in Atlanta, 511GA has provided real-time traffic updates, crashes and construction alerts, and access to over 3,700 traffic cameras across the state. Whether you’re commuting through the city, traveling to the mountains, or heading down to the coast, 511GA has been there, helping Georgians and visitors travel smarter.  

This year’s theme, “Connecting Georgia, One Road at a Time”, reminds us that every update, alert, and app notification plays a role in building a stronger, safer, and more connected Georgia. Behind every alert is a dedicated team working around the clock to keep you moving and informed.  

As we reflect on 18 years of innovation and service, we celebrate the people behind 511GA. Our 511GA operators, traffic specialists, dispatchers, HERO and CHAMP, and partners work extremely hard to ensure that our roads are among the safest and most efficient in the nation.  

Follow us on X and Facebook throughout the week as we highlight the amazing people and partners that power 511GA. Don’t miss interviews, fun features, and ways for you to get involved. Use #511GADay to share your appreciation, stories, or just a shoutout to the team!  

Haven’t downloaded the app yet? Now’s the perfect time to add 511GA to your travel toolbox and experience what nearly two decades of trusted service look like. Here’s to 18 years of keeping Georgia connected and to the many miles ahead.  

Happy 511GA Day! 

Last month, team members from the Georgia Dept. of Transportation’s TMC(Transportation Management Center) and District 3 Operations Center hit the road to Columbus, GA for this year’s Georgia Emergency Communicators Conference, a dynamic gathering that brings together public safety communicators from across the state.

The annual event offered a valuable opportunity to showcase GDOT’s role in keeping Georgia moving during high-stakes situations. Requel Williams and Ariana Ward took the spotlight with their presentation, “GDOT’s Playbook for Emergency Event Management.” Their session offered attendees an inside look at how GDOT supports emergency response efforts during major events, including the Super Bowl, as well as how GDOT can provide resources to support counties during local events and unexpected weather-related crises.

Beyond the presentation, 511GA had a strong presence at the conference with an interactive vendor booth. Attendees who stopped by had a chance to spin the prize wheel and grab some 511 swag, all while learning how to download and use the 511GA app to stay informed on the road.

Overall, the conference provided the opportunity to strengthen the connection between GDOT and Georgia’s network of emergency communicators, and to continue building partnerships that help make our roadways safer.

Spring break is right around the corner! Whether you’re heading to Georgia’s islands, mountains, or bustling city attractions, 511GA is here to keep you informed on road conditions, traffic updates, and travel safety tips. As one of the busiest travel periods of the year, it’s essential to plan ahead to avoid delays and ensure a smooth trip.



When to Travel:

• Historical travel patterns predict heavy travel times between 12:00 pm – 7:00 pm on metro Atlanta interstates during the beginning Spring Break travel period, Friday, April 4 - Sunday, April 6. There will also be heavy travel during the return period, Friday, April 11 - Sunday, April 13. Motorists can expect typical traffic during the Spring Break week from Monday, April 7 - Thursday, April 10.
• Heavier than usual traffic is expected to begin in the afternoon on Friday, April 4, and will continue into Saturday, April 5. Normal to light traffic is expected on metro Atlanta surface streets from Sunday, April 7 to Sunday, April 13.

Spring Break Travel Safety Tips:

1. Move Over, Slow Down – Keep first responders and emergency crews safe by following Georgia’s Move Over Law.
2. Buckle Up – Ensure all passengers wear seat belts at all times.
3. Avoid Distracted Driving – Stay off your phone and remain focused on the road.
4. Be Aware of Teenage Drivers – Expect an increase in young and inexperienced motorists on the road.
5. Plan for Delays – Have an alternative route ready in case of unexpected traffic or road closures.
6. Roadside Assistance – Call 511 to speak to an operator and request a HERO or CHAMP patroller.   

 
For real-time traffic information and updates, visit 511ga.org, download our mobile app, or follow us on Facebook and X. Wherever your spring break plans take you, let 511GA be your trusted travel guide. Plan ahead, drive safely, and enjoy your vacation!

 

April marks the start of Distracted Driving Awareness Month, an essential time to reflect on the risks of taking your eyes off the road. Whether it’s checking a text or reaching for something in the backseat, even a split-second distraction can lead to devastating consequences.  

Georgia’s Hands-Free Law prohibits the use of handheld devices while driving, yet according to Governor’s Office of Highway Safety, in 2021, 29 percent of all serious injury crashes involved at least one driver confirmed or suspected of distraction. Staying focused behind the wheel isn’t just about following the law, it’s about protecting lives. 

One of the best ways to prevent distractions is to plan ahead, and that’s where 511GA comes in! Creating a My511 account provides you with real-time, customized traffic alerts before you even leave your driveway. Instead of fumbling with your phone mid-trip, you’ll already know about road conditions, congestion, and detours. In addition, within the 511GA app’s “Drive Mode”, live auditory traffic updates are provided to you on the go.  

In April, and throughout the rest of the year, commit to distraction-free driving by making smart choices before your trip begins. Stay informed, stay alert, and let 511GA help you keep your focus where it belongs, on the roadway.  

Learn more by exploring more of 511ga.org or by downloading the app today! 

Spring is right around the corner and that means it’s time for some serious spring cleaning! While you’re decluttering closets, don’t forget one important space that could use a refresh: your phone.
 Is your home screen filled with apps you haven’t used in months? Why not swap them out for something essential like the 511GA app, your all-in-one travel sidekick, perfect for navigating Georgia’s roads safely?

Why 511GA Deserves a Spot on Your Home Screen
Here’s why 511GA should make the cut when you refresh your phone this spring:

• Real-Time Traffic Updates
  • Ditch the guesswork! Get live traffic alerts and construction updates so you always know before you go.
• Personalized Routes with My511
  • Customize your routes and receive alerts about incidents that might impact your drive.

• Live Traffic Cameras
  • Check out real-time traffic cameras to see road conditions before heading out because sometimes, seeing is believing.
• Severe Weather & Emergency Alerts

• Georgia’s weather can be unpredictable, but 511GA keeps you updated on hazardous conditions and emergency road closures.

Refresh Your Travel Routine
Spring cleaning is about getting rid of the unnecessary. So, as you tidy up your phone, make sure 511GA is front and center. It’s free, easy to use, and available 24/7/365.
 
Download the 511GA app today and head into spring with smarter travel.

Severe weather can strike at any time, making it essential to stay prepared while traveling on Georgia’s roads. With 511 Georgia, you have a reliable partner to keep you informed and ready for anything the weather throws your way!

Quick Tips to Stay Weather-Wise:

1. Family Preparedness
   • Plan ahead with your loved ones to ensure everyone knows what to do in case of severe weather. Create a communication plan, assemble an emergency kit, and practice evacuation routes regularly.
2. Thunderstorm Safety
   • Learn how to stay safe during thunderstorms by avoiding outdoor activities and seeking shelter. Unplug electrical devices to prevent electrical surges.
3. Tornado Safety
   • Be prepared for tornadoes by identifying safe rooms such as basements or interior rooms without windows. Keep the weather or a weather radio handy and know the difference between tornado watches and warnings.
4. Lightning Safety
   • Protect yourself from lightning by staying indoors and away from electrical appliances during storms. Avoid water activities and refrain from taking shelter under trees or open structures.
5. Flash Flooding/Flood Safety
   • Stay aware of flood-prone areas and never drive through flooded roads for your safety. Remember: "Turn Around, Don’t Drown." Move to higher ground immediately if flooding occurs.

Use 511GA to stay informed and plan ahead for safer travel. To stay informed about traffic conditions and updates, visit 511ga.org, download our mobile app, or follow us on Facebook and X. Don’t let severe weather catch you off guard!
 

On National Law Enforcement Day, Jan. 9, 2025, we take a moment to honor the dedication and hard work of the men and women in uniform who go above and beyond to ensure the safety of Georgia’s roads and communities.

Every day, law enforcement officers work hand-in-hand with the Georgia Dept. of Transportation and 511GA, including HERO and CHAMP operators, to keep our roadways safe and efficient. Whether it’s managing traffic incidents or providing emergency assistance, their knowledge and quick action are invaluable to Georgia’s motorists.

The collaboration between law enforcement and 511GA ensures that motorists have access to the most up-to-date information on road conditions, incidents, and lane closures. When officers report accidents or hazardous conditions, this information is relayed to 511GA’s system, allowing drivers to plan safer and more efficient routes.

Today, we thank Georgia’s law enforcement officers for their service, dedication, and partnership. Your commitment to safety makes every journey better for us all.

As you travel through Georgia, remember to use 511GA for real-time traffic updates and to stay informed about roadway conditions. And don’t forget to thank the officers who work so hard to keep us safe!
 

Throughout 2024, the 511GA team has worked to be more than just a traffic and travel resource. Our goal has been to be advocates for safer and smarter travel across Georgia. This year, we’ve focused on ramping up our community engagement efforts to connect directly with Georgians like you.
Our outreach efforts more than doubled in comparison to 2023, with our team participating in an exciting 15 events across Georgia. From city streets to library parking lots, we met hundreds of Georgians right in their communities.
 
Community Connections
We engaged communities by attending various "Touch-A-Truck" events and "Truckapaloozas" in Cherokee County, Marietta, and Kennesaw. These family-friendly gatherings provided a hands-on opportunity to showcase our resources and connect with people of all ages. Additionally, our participation in Atlanta Streets Alive provided the unique opportunity to inform metro Atlanta motorists about 511GA’s tools in a vibrant, car-free environment.
 
Educating Future Drivers
It’s never too early to ensure that the next generation of drivers are informed about roadway safety. Visiting schools like Winston Elementary in Douglas County and Grace Christian Academy in Cobb County helped inform educators and teach future drivers the fundamentals for safe driving.
 
Looking Ahead
As we close out an incredible year, 511GA is already gearing up for a more impactful 2025. We’re taking steps to expand our outreach efforts by connecting with more communities across the Peach State. Who knows? We might be coming to your city next!
 
In the meantime, stay informed and prepped for your travels by downloading the 511GA app and following us on X and Facebook. Here’s to a bright 2025! 

For a complete look back at 511GA's year, click HERE.

When roadway debris threatened motorist Chris Collins’ roadway travels on I-20, 511 was around to save the day! In a recent interview with 511GA, Chris, a senior safety manager for McKenney’s, shared how assistance from one of Georgia DOT's HERO units helped get him back on the roadway after a piece of debris crossed the median and punctured his tire.



After dialing 511 and speaking with an operator, he stated that a HERO patroller arrived on scene to help change his tire and ensure he returned to the roadway safely.  He credits the effective work of the 511GA staff for helping him “feel a lot more comfortable about being stranded on the side of the road.” Chris also commended the usage of 511GA’s cameras as a resource tool used to locate him and his vehicle on the roadway.
We’re so happy we could help, Chris!

Click here to check out the full interview & remember, you too can call 511 for travel assistance and real-time traffic information.

Have any stories about how 511 helped you on the roadway? We'd love to hear!
 

 

 

Georgia Department of Transportation’s (Georgia DOT) Transform 285/400 Project is designed to help reduce congestion on the I-285/SR 400 interchange in metro Atlanta. By constructing new flyover ramps and collector-distributor lanes, travel on this interchange will be improved and safer for the motoring public in Georgia.

 

511 Georgia, the Georgia DOT’s free traveler program, is here to help you know before you go and be aware of current road conditions and closures. With our many tools and features, you’ll be able to stay ahead of the curve with new lane openings and updates from the Transform 285/400 project.

Resources

• I-285 Lane Closures
• Main Transform 285/400 Page
• Sign up for Alerts/News
• View Traffic Impacts

How you can use 511GA to prepare
      

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The 16@95 Improvement Projects will provide infrastructure enhancements to the I-16 at I-95 Interchange and widen along the I-16 corridor from I-95 to I-516. The project benefits to motorists include: 

• Ease of congestion 
• Decrease of travel times 
• Enhancements in motorist safety and travel efficiency 

To navigate through the construction zones and stay updated on traffic conditions during the 16@95 Improvement Projects, motorists can make effective use of 511 Georgia. Here are some ways to utilize this valuable resource: 

• Dial 511: Call to access real-time traffic information, including but not limited to incidents and congestion by speaking with an operator. 
• Go to 511ga.org: Visit our website for current traffic volumes and customizable, personalized travel notifications with My511.  
• Use 511 in the Palm of your Hand: Download the 511 Georgia mobile app on Google Play or the App Store for convenient access to roadway alerts and more. 
• Follow Us!: Follow 511 Georgia on Facebook or X for further updates