National Work Zone Awareness Week

National Work Zone Awareness Week

National Work Zone Awareness Week 2019 is taking place April 8 –12 to raise public awareness of work zone safety. Motorists are encouraged to slow down, eliminate distractions while driving, and be watchful for roadway workers and construction equipment. Work zone awareness is important for the health, safety, and welfare of countless local, state, and private construction professionals.

According to the Iowa Department of Transportation, 652 work zone crashes occur on average every year (approximately 200 injury-related crashes every year). In Cedar Rapids, between 2008 and 2018, 280 crashes occurred inside construction work zone areas.

As part of National Work Zone Awareness Week, the City of Cedar Rapids would like to remind the public of important safety tips and regulations on construction zone safety. Together, we can do our part to keep roadway professionals safe.

Safety Reminders

• Obey the Posted Speed Limit.
• Construction workers may be present just feet away from where traffic is moving.
• Fines may be doubled for violations through construction zones, such as speeding.
• Avoid changing the radio station, using a mobile phone, eating, or other distractions that can remove your concentration from the road, especially in construction zones.
• Be aware that traffic patterns can change and anticipate delays.

Be Aware of Construction Signage

• “Construction Ahead” signs indicate that a motorist or bicyclist is entering a construction work zone. Be mindful of signage, lane closures, and construction workers.
• “Road Closed” signs indicate that the road is completely closed to all traffic. It is prohibited for both motorists and bicyclists to enter any portion of the roadway. 
• “Road Closed to Thru Traffic” indicates the road is closed for traffic traveling through the site; only property owners or those traveling to a business located directly on the project site should access the road – all other motorists are prohibited from using the street. 
• Failure to obey a traffic control device, or moving a traffic control device such a road closed sign, is both illegal and dangerous.