Work Zone Safety Week in Michigan: Respect the zone so we all get home

COLDWATER, MI (WTVB)- Starting today through Friday, Michigan joins the nation in observing National Work Zone Awareness Week , a critical campaign aimed at promoting safety for both road workers and motorists in work zones. This year’s theme, “Respect the zone so we all get home,” underscores the shared responsibility to prioritize safety during road construction and maintenance season.

Preliminary data from 2024 reports 16 fatalities, three workers and 13 motorists in work zone crashes, alongside over 6,000 incidents. These sobering statistics highlight the dangers faced by construction, maintenance, and utility workers who risk their lives to improve Michigan’s roads and bridges. Governor Gretchen Whitmer and Lieutenant Governor Garlin Gilchrist II have proclaimed April 21-25 as Work Zone Awareness Week in Michigan, urging drivers to slow down, stay alert, and minimize distractions.

The Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) and the Michigan Work Zone Safety Task Force are leading efforts to reduce these tragedies. Recent legislation signed by Governor Whitmer now allows speed cameras in work zones, issuing warnings and fines for speeding to deter reckless driving. MDOT also emphasizes that work zones extend beyond construction sites, including mobile maintenance crews performing tasks like painting and guardrail repairs.

On Wednesday, Michigan residents are encouraged to “Go Orange” by wearing orange and sharing photos on social media with hashtags #Orange4Safety, #GoOrangeDay, and #NWZAW to show support for roadway workers.