By David Woodfill / ADOT Communications

It's that time of year again.

The flowers are in bloom, the jackets and coats are gone and families and friends are hitting the open road for vacation.

It's also the time of year when the Arizona Department of Transportation is able to get started – or restarted – projects in the high country thanks to higher temperatures and an end to snowstorms. While we always try to minimize the impact of projects and restrictions, it pays to do your research before heading to or through the high country during spring and summer.

"We have a lot of maintenance activities to address pavement conditions, guardrail work and shoulder work throughout the district," said Chad Auker, assistant district engineer in the North Central District, which includes the highest reaches of I-17 and I-40.

Beyond major projects underway or about to start in the Flagstaff area, Auker said there are others that can affect travel, such as planned but yet-to-be-scheduled work to apply a preventative road surface treatment on State Route 89A between Sedona and Cottonwood.

Lindy Sherrer, a maintenance superintendent in the Northeast District, pointed to several upcoming flush coat projects, including one on US 160.

"That's where you apply a thin layer of emulsified asphalt to rejuvenate the pavement," she said.

Those planning trips this spring or summer should do a little homework and build any projects and restrictions into their plans. Besides calling 511 or following ADOT's Twitter account at @ArizonaDOT, a great way to stay up-to-date is visiting the Arizona Traveler Information site at az511.gov.

As shown at left, clicking the tab for "Road Conditions" and checking boxes labeled "Road Work" and "Closures" allow weekend warriors to learn about any projects and restrictions that can affect travel.

In addition, those also interested in learning about unforeseen highway closures due to traffic incidents can download our free app at ADOTAlerts.com. Alerts, which are sent directly to subscribers' cellphones, include critical and timely information and provide alternate routes when available.

By Caroline Carpenter / ADOT Communications 

We can tell you about traffic, but there's nothing like being able to see it for yourself. The good news is ADOT has traffic cameras stationed all across the state to give you a look at traffic and weather conditions before you head out the door.

The list of camera views available via az511.gov continues to grow with two major additions.

Maricopa residents and those traveling through Maricopa now can view nine high-definition cameras placed along major intersections on State Route 347 from Riggs Road to Farrell Road.

Those traveling the Loop 202 Santan Freeway in the southeast Valley can also get a view of their route online. Cameras from Loop 101 Price Freeway to Ray Road can be accessed on AZ511.gov.

Drivers have told us through social media they’re checking the cameras.

is that a new HD camera? Looks slick.

— Thomas (@th3_accountant) September 3, 2016

You got it!

— Arizona DOT (@ArizonaDOT) June 21, 2017

ADOT has more than 300 cameras stationed across the state that are viewable online. Besides showing road conditions, traffic cameras are used to quickly spot crashes, allowing first responders to better locate traffic incidents and allocate appropriate resources. This helps reduce secondary crashes and improves traffic congestion. All of this makes our highways safer.

Before you grab your keys and head out the door, make sure you’ve scouted your route out on az511.gov!

By Peter Corbett / ADOT Communications

The many cameras available via our Arizona Traveler Information site at az511.gov aren’t the only way to see how weather may affect trips on state highways.

Those of us communicating from the Traffic Operations Center often engage non-ADOT cameras across the state to check weather conditions – or maybe just see places we’d rather be when triple-digit temperatures hit. Webcams located at Flagstaff, the Grand Canyon, Jerome and Lake Havasu City help us inform travelers via ADOT’s Twitter and Facebook accounts.

At FlagstaffArizona.org, the Flagstaff Convention and Visitors Bureau has a very good HD camera atop the train depot. It beams images of the San Francisco Peaks, Leroux Street, Route 66 and the train yard and even transmits ambient sound of trains rumbling past and howling winds.

In July, we caught glimpses of an Independence Day parade downtown, and this past winter we watched a raptor swoop down toward the snowy Amtrak platform. When snow falls, the camera captures street scenes suitable for a Currier and Ives lithograph.

The webcam, operating since June 2015, is a favorite for in-state, u.s. and international tourists interested in Flagstaff, said Lori Pappas, a spokeswoman for the Flagstaff Convention and Visitors Bureau.

“It’s a good tool for people,” she said. “now that we’re on the cusp of fall, they can check on opportunities for coming north to see the leaves changing colors.”

The webcam also reminds desert dwellers to be prepared for Flagstaff weather rather than showing up in shorts and flip-flops in December, Pappas added.

the site has links to webcams for northern Arizona University, the National Weather Service, Arizona Snowbowl, ADOT and Grand Canyon National Park.

The National Park Service has long had a fixed camera at Yavapai Point overlooking Grand Canyon. This year, it added a camera at the South Rim entrance gate on State Route 64, which shows when traffic is backed up entering the park. one recent morning, there were no cars at the gate, but the camera captured an elk seemingly waiting to get in the park.

In western Arizona, the Lake Havasu City Convention and Visitors Bureau’s golakehavasu.com installed an HD camera aimed at the London Bridge. it pans across the channel as boaters, paddle boarders and kayakers float across the water and under the bridge. imagine looking at those scenes from snowy climes in March.

Another favorite webcam is operated by KZRJ-FM, kzrjlivecam.com, in Jerome. The station’s HD camera scans across historic homes and buildings on Cleopatra Hill, shows vehicles traveling along State Route 89A and swings around to show the Verde Valley and even the distant San Francisco Peaks. Jerome is always photogenic, but the town is in its Sunday best in snowstorms or fog.

It’s easy to sit on your sofa and take a virtual trip via these cameras, but sometimes the views inspire us to hit the road for real because the remote images are so compelling.

By Caroline Carpenter / ADOT Communications

You’ve seen the information we put out each year reminding drivers to pack things like extra water for trips in hot weather and items to include in a winter emergency supply kit. In the age of technology, it’s also important to know where to go for accurate information before and during your trip.

AZ511 Screenshot

Before you head out on our highways, plan your trip by checking AZ511.gov for the latest on crashes, road construction and closures. AZ511.gov is updated 24/7/365. The menu on the right side of the site allows you to select the information you want to see, from camera images to construction projects to incidents. Clicking on an icon for a project, incident, closure, etc., will provide additional details. If the Internet isn’t your thing, you may also call 511 for this information.

ADOT on Twitter

Turn to @ArizonaDOT on Twitter for immediate information on highway conditions. Of course, you should only check Twitter when making a pit stop, or a passenger can check. Twitter allows ADOT to share quick, concise updates and interact with followers.

Dynamic Message Board: "Crash 44 Miles Ahead - Expect Delays"

Remember to pay attention to overhead message boards. If you see there’s a crash ahead or a lane closed, there’s a good chance you’re in for a delay. If the message board tells you the road is closed, it’s time to consider alternate routes.

ADOT Facebook Page

If you want to delve deeper into a project or see the highlights of what ADOT is working on, visit AZDOT.gov or the ADOT Facebook page at facebook.com/AZDOT. The Facebook page is updated with news from ADOT and major traffic closures, but we always suggest AZ511.gov and Twitter for the most updated information across the state.

Here’s a quick recap of where to go for ADOT info:

• Check AZ511.gov or call 511 before you hit the road.
• Check @ArizonaDOT on Twitter and overhead message boards for up to the minute updates and quick answers on crashes, closures and detours.
• For expanded information on construction and significant closures, visit Facebook and the ADOT website. 

By Dave Woodfill and Garin Groff / ADOT Communications

Just in time for more winter weather this weekend, our Arizona Traveler Information site has expanded your view of highways and conditions with nine new cameras around the state.

Joining the many traffic and weather cameras available at az511.gov, these views help ADOT and commuters using their desktop computers and laptops get real-time information on road conditions. And let’s face it – it’s just fun to check out those Arizona sunrises and sunsets.

Five cameras in northern Arizona are on Interstate 40 near Ash Fork, near Butler Avenue in Flagstaff and at the Sanders Port of Entry near New Mexico; at State Route 89A and Milton Road in Flagstaff; and along SR 260 near Show Low. Cameras in the central and southern portions of the state are on US 60 south of Wickenburg; on Interstate 10 near Sacaton and Picacho Peak; and along State Route 90 in Whetstone.

Views from some of these cameras are below.

Next time you’re heading out on a trip, trying to beat the traffic or just looking for a great view, visit to az511.gov and see what camera views are available along your route.

Traffic Camera: US 60 eastbound at milepost 119 south of Wickenburg.

Traffic Camera: SR 89A and Milton Road in Flagstaff.

Traffic Camera: SR 260 milepost 335 in Show Low.

Traffic Camera: Sanders Port of Entry, I-40 milepost 340.

These days, you don’t necessarily have to have a computer to view a website – there are tablets and smartphones that allow you to go online while you’re on the go.

That’s why ADOT has launched a mobile-friendly version of its website (maybe you’re reading this right now on the mobile version)...

The new version of ADOT’s website offers access to MVD online services at ServiceArizona.com as well as MVD office locations and hours with approximate wait times for offices statewide. There are also links to ADOT’s Traveler Information System (AZ 511) and Twitter account for up-to-date traffic information.

You can also easily read our blog, news releases and find a contact list of main ADOT phone numbers.

ADOT’s Web server automatically recognizes mobile devices and loads the mobile version of the site when smartphone and tablet users go to the ADOT website, azdot.gov. However, you do still have the option to view the full website on your mobile device.

Of course, it should go without saying, ADOT advises people not to access the mobile site on their smartphone or tablet while driving.

Check out the new version by visiting azdot.gov with a mobile device.

Yesterday we showed you how the crew at ADOT’s Traffic Operations Center works to keep motorists informed of what’s happening out on the roads…

We mentioned the az511.gov website (as we frequently do) and told you how its one of many ways that the traveling public can get information. Today, we wanted to let you know that a project is getting underway to redevelop the 511 Traveler Information System website, but first, ADOT is seeking your input.

AZ 511

The Traveler Information System – both the az511.gov website and the 511 phone line – are designed to provide accurate, up-to-date information for drivers and travelers. The system provides data on crashes, construction-related restrictions, weather, planned closures and other events that impact mobility around Arizona.

Last month, there were nearly 54,000 visits to the az511.gov website. Usage typically spikes during the winter storm season and when summer monsoon storms hit the state.

How you can give your thoughts
ADOT is reaching out to drivers and users of the current az511.gov site to create an outline for a redesigned site that better meets the expectations and needs of travelers around the state. This is the first major revision planned for the az511.gov site since 2010!

To let us know what you think, all you’ve got to do is complete a brief, 12-question survey.

We appreciate your time and will continue to keep you updated as the redesign project progresses!