Current snapshots of seven sites along U.S. 52 are now available for viewing on the World Wide Web.
The highway cameras, operated by the Minnesota Department of Transportation, produce updated images every five to 10 minutes. The images can be seen at www.511mn.org. Select the location southeast Minnesota, then click on the "cameras" tab. Links to the cameras can also be found at www.postbulletin.com.
The cameras' primary use is to help the Minnesota State Patrol quickly discover accidents, stalled vehicles and other problems requiring emergency response. The cameras can be turned 360 degrees and can be zoomed in for a closer look at specific locations.
For citizens, the cameras can help determine levels of highway congestion, helping travelers better plan their routes.
The cameras and Web site are part of 511, the national traveler information service launched three years ago by the Federal Communications Commission. Minnesota was selected as one of six states to launch a 511 service.
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To get road condition information by telephone, dial 511.
