MnDOT Honors Fallen Transportation Workers

Last week, the Minnesota Department of Transportation will honor transportation workers who have been killed or injured on the job as part of a national Worker Memorial Day observance on Friday, April 28. Since 1960, 34 MnDOT workers and 15 contractors have lost their lives while working on Minnesota highways, according to transit officials.

“With more than 200 construction work zones underway this year, we have hundreds of men and women on the road working to improve our roads and bridges and make them safer for everybody,” said Commissioner Charlie Zelle in a statement. “We all need to do our part so all of our workers return safely to their families at the end of the day.”

In recognition of Worker Memorial Day, the Interstate 35W bridge in Minneapolis was lit orange on April 28 to remember the workers who lost their lives while working on Minnesota’s highways.

“We will continue to work for the safety of our employees, our contractors, the traveling public and all our transportation partners,” said Zelle.

MnDOT reminds the public that motorists and passengers suffer the vast majority of work zone deaths and injuries and urges them to follow these recommendations in work zones:

• Stay alert; work zones constantly change with lane shifts, closures and moving workers and vehicles
• Watch for signs, equipment and workers
• Minimize distractions, such as using cell phones, eating or drinking
• Avoid tailgating
• Follow posted speed limits and directional signs
• Be patient; expect delays, especially during peak travel times

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