New app to provide local road information

Many residents are familiar with MnDOT’s 511mn app used for updating drivers on winter road conditions, detours, and closed roads. 

The Geographic Information Systems (GIS) Department of Otter Tail County has just released a web map with similar features for Otter Tail County roads.

George Meyer, Otter Tail County GIS Lead Developer, explained how OTC511 was conceived and designed to answer many commonly asked questions quickly and easily. “The OTC511 web app was developed to deliver a simple, locally focused, mobile-friendly one-stop shop for users can view road-related information.”

Users can view the interactive OTC511 web map to view road and bridge closures and then click on the detour routes to access the detour map. Maintenance work such as seal coating and resurfacing can also be seen on the map with approximate start and end dates. 

This service will allow drivers to plan for alternate routes when road work is in progress. The OTC511 info app can be found on the County web page at ottertailcountymn.us.

“We work to keep the public informed of current and upcoming road work so drivers can be prepared,” said Matt Yavarow, assistant county engineer. “The OTC511 app is one moreinnovative tool the highway department uses to serve the public.”

The County Road and Construction Updates page is updated weekly to share information about highway construction projects and plans. 

Follow the link at ottertailcountymn.us/county-road-\conditions/ to find:

• List of 2022 major road projects

• OTC511 app

• Monthly highway updates from the County Engineer

• Pictures of current projects

• County Transportation Plan

The web app is not currently available in a downloadable app form, so users will need to visit the webpage to access the application. To receive updates via email, please subscribe to the page at ottertailcountymn.us/subscribe-to-updates/