Voice recognition software company BeVocal and BellSouth have been selected to deploy a 511 voice recognition system for an eight-state region covering more than 17 million citizens.

This multi-state consortium, called CARS-511, includes Alaska, Iowa, Kentucky, Maine, Minnesota, New Hampshire, New Mexico and Vermont. This is the largest 511 deal to date, according to the companies, and is being rolled out in stages beginning with Minnesota.
The Federal Communications Commission has designated 511 as the nationwide number for travel information, enabling callers to easily access real-time information on road surface and weather conditions, accidents, road closures, work zones, public transportation scheduling and tourism.
One hurdle to the widespread use of 511 is relevant traffic information being available to disseminate via the system.
"This is a win-win situation for the states and their residents," said Terry Doyle of the New Mexico State Highway and Transportation Department. "The states win because we're saving money by pooling phone lines and outsourcing call center capabilities to a trusted provider. The residents win because they get a best-in-class 511 system that enables them to access vital real-time travel information wherever they are from any telephone."