New York Launches Thruway App

The New York State Thruway Authority has launched a mobile app in time for Thanksgiving, the busiest travel holiday of the year. It's now available to download for free on iPhone and Android devices.

The new app not only offers detailed services information for New York's 570-mile superhighway, it also provides motorists direct access to real-time traffic and navigation assistance while on the go, officials said.

Almost 51 million Americans are expected to travel this week for Thanksgiving, most of them on the roads, according to AAA.

"The Thruway's new app is a valuable travel tool that we will recommend to all of our members," said John A. Corlett, Director of Public Affairs for AAA Northeast. "I encourage all of AAA's 2.7 million members in New York State to use this useful new app to receive real-time traffic updates and report any issues along the Thruway system. We applaud the Governor and the Thruway Authority as they strive to deliver an enhanced travel experience to our members and the public at large."

The new app enables travelers to access the latest road conditions in real-time, including construction and traffic alerts, while remaining hands-free. A safety setting option also utilizes voice announcements for roadway updates while traveling.

Other Thruway Authority app features include:

• Interactive Thruway map with real-time voice notification of upcoming Thruway-specific sites and traffic events;
• Toll Calculator to plan your trip;
• Report an issue regarding a road condition, safety or services;
• Request Roadside assistance;
• Restaurant and Thruway Service Area locator; and
• E-ZPass and Tolls by Mail information.

The app also provides links to the I Love NY tourism app, New York State Department of Transportation, New York Department of Motor Vehicles, New York State Department of Homeland Security and Emergency Services - See Something, Say Something, as well as the Thruway Authority website.

"New York continues to meet the needs of 21st century travelers, and ahead of the busy holiday season, the launch of this new app will provide reliable, advanced technology to keep motorists informed and safe," Gov. Andrew M. Cuomo said in the announcement. "By connecting travelers with real-time information, this new app will help ease travel along the Thruway, promote responsible driving habits, and support an easier, less congested holiday commute for all."

Anyone interested in downloading the Thruway app can do so by visiting the iOS devices website or Android devices website.

"The app is versatile and will not only improve the traveling experience by putting real-time road and traffic conditions in the palm of your hand but will allow for direct communication with the Thruway Authority," said Thruway Authority Acting Executive Director Matthew J. Driscoll. "Patrons will be able to use the 'Report an Issue' feature to report things like road and facility conditions, and service quality. Patrons who report conditions will receive email responses as the issues are addressed. This two-way communication directly between our patrons on the road and our employees will improve our ability to serve motorists and provide a safe highway for their travel needs."

Watch Now: New York Launches Thruway App

Image via NY Thruway Authority