FORT BELVOIR, Va. (June7) -- The Virginia Department of Transportation's 511 traffic information program features new and improved tools Fort Belvoir employees can use to avoid road congestion during commutes, according to officials.

The 511 program provides updates on road delays, road construction and weather alerts among other traffic related information.

Virginia Governor Bob McDonnell's office recently announced 511 upgrades which include a free mobile phone application, a new website and an improved phone system May 23.

Juanita Green, garrison transportation demand management coordinator, said 511 is a good information source for Belvoir employees commuting on roads such as Interstates 95 and 395, and U.S. Route 1.

"It gives them an idea of good times to leave. If there's an accident people can decide to stay later at work and then leave when their road path has cleared up," said Green who uses the maps and information to identify alternate paths home when her main route is experiencing traffic jams.

The website displays information such as incidents, construction zones, electronic message signs and travel times.

The site links to external resources, including information on public transit and commuters can also access live streaming video from traffic cameras throughout Virginia that, according to officials, stream at 15 frames per second.

"It's a good access point for people to go and get a visual of what the traffic is like," Green said. "A lot of employees use it."

The phone system has a voice recognition system that allows to users to choose a highway and direction of travel for traffic jam information among other uses.

iPhone and Android carriers can access the 511 service through their cell phone by using the VDOT 511 Mobile App. The app provides travel times, map information and traffic information designed for drivers and passengers.

The app also links to VDOT's Twitter feed, which has traffic news and information throughout Virginia.

"Virginia is a leader among state departments of transportation in providing real-time traffic information and live streaming traffic images to help motorists make the best travel choices," McDonnell said in a press release. "The new and improved 511 system empowers drivers with the knowledge they need to avoid congestion and take a faster route to their destination."

In the same release, Sean Connaughton, Commonwealth of Virginia transportation secretary, said sponsors will help pay for the service by paying for space on the 511 signs.

"That's a significant win for motorists and taxpayers," Connaughton said.

Dial 511 from any land line or cell phone to access the system, or visit www.511Virginia.org for more information.