New 'Cruz511' Travel Site Launches In Santa Cruz County

Santa Cruz County Regional Transportation Commission recently launched a 511 service called Cruz511 that aims to help travelers plan routes with a real-time traffic map, explore different travel options, and overall reduce the stress of traveling with knowledge on what to expect.

The website, which is mobile-responsive and can be accessed via smartphone, tablet, or computer, also offers tools where users can locate parking, stations to charge electric vehicles, safe places to lock up bikes, and even helps coordinate carpools.

According to the Regional Transportation Commission, Cruz511 compiles up-to-date data from Caltrans, the California Highway Patrol, and Google, and was designed to be a one-stop shop for transportation users as well as a go-to place for information that impacts the transportation system such as construction or collisions.

Development for the service was initially funded by a grant from Caltrans in partnership with the Transportation Agency for Monterey County. According to the Regional Transportation Commission, a service similar to Cruz511 is currently in the works for Monterey County.

“Cruz511 is designed to be a traveler-friendly resource that people can use to plan how they get around,” Executive Director George Dondero said in a statement. “Knowing what to expect can really improve people’s travel experience and cut down on frustration and anxiety.”

--Bay City News