April 7, 2014
Manitoba Government Launches Highway Condition Camera Network
– – –Technology Gives Drivers Better Real-time Information: Minister Ashton
New solar-powered cameras have been added to the provincial Road Weather Information System (RWIS) at strategic locations along provincial highways to provide drivers more real-time information about road conditions, Infrastructure and Transportation Minister Steve Ashton said today.
“The new cameras will transmit constantly updated photos of road conditions to the provincial highways website and mobile devices, allowing Manitobans to see what they may be driving into,” said Minister Ashton. “This new feature strengthens the government’s 511 service, which already provides current road information, to help drivers determine before they depart if there are challenging conditions or the RCMP have closed roads.”
There are five existing solar-powered cameras on the Trans-Canada Highway and PTH 75. Seven additional sites will provide road and weather information on the Trans-Canada Highway, PTH 5, PTH 16 and at two sites each on PTH 6 and PTH 10.
“A network of roadside cameras on Manitoba highways is a great tool for motorists,” said Mike Mager, president and CEO of CAA Manitoba. “It is something we have long advocated the province to do, especially after seeing success with similar programs in other provinces.”
The interactive online road information map available at the provincial 511 website now includes options to show camera images, current weather and forecasts, wait times at the Emerson-Pembina U.S. border crossing, and links to neighbouring provincial and state road information websites.
The latest information on road conditions is available anytime by calling 511 (toll-free) or online at www.mb511.ca. Updates on road closures and RCMP travel notifications can be received by following the Twitter account at www.twitter.com/MBGovRoads.
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