MoDOT launches smartphone app to check state road conditions

COLUMBIA — The Missouri Department of Transportation has launched a smartphone application that allows users to check the latest information on road conditions, work zones, flooding and incidents. 

Free versions of "The Traveler Information Map" have been released for Android and iPhone users.

The development of the app started in August and was available for Android on Oct. 28 and for the iPhone on Dec. 13. It was publicly announced on Dec. 22.

When the app starts, a state map of Missouri comes up, and users can tap the screen to zoom in for details.

Weather-related road conditions are loaded as a default, but users can tap the "Conditions" and personalize display options. MoDOT traffic cameras are available on some roads to provide still shots of traffic.

Users can also turn on GPS tracking to precisely locate themselves. Radar images are supplied by the National Weather Service, so travelers can follow weather conditions and plan their trips.

If drivers need more information, they can click the "1-888-ASK-MODOT" option to call MoDOT's customer service number.

The app offers information identical to its online version and is intended to give more convenience to smartphone users.

To date, downloads have exceeded 2,500 altogether on both markets, Matt Hiebert, MoDOT's production manager, said.

Based on current ratings, users of both smartphones gave an average rating — three stars. Several reviews available online said the app was "hard to navigate smoothly."

"We read those reviews," Hiebert said. "Users' feedback helps us make decisions on how to improve the app."

There is also a Facebook page for the Traveler Information Map.