Old Dominion News

RICHMOND — The Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) is participating in a national campaign to highlight safety in work zones. This initiative coincides with National Work Zone Awareness Week, scheduled from April 21-25, 2025. The theme for this year is "Respect the zone so we all get home."

VDOT Commissioner Stephen Brich emphasized the risks faced by VDOT workers daily. "VDOT workers face risks every day working to maintain and improve our roads, highways, and bridges," he stated. He further noted the importance of drivers adhering to work zone rules to help ensure the safety of these workers who have lives outside of their jobs.

VDOT has highlighted personal stories of its workers, who have varied motivations to return home safely after work. These include volunteering as firefighters and coaching youth sports, among others. These stories are featured in a video available online.

The week includes several planned activities to promote work zone safety. It begins with safety training on Monday. A vigil is planned for Wednesday, April 23, at 1 p.m. at the VDOT workers' memorial on Interstate 64, Afton Mountain, marking 20 years since the memorial's dedication. Wednesday will also feature Go Orange Day, encouraging people to wear orange and share pictures on social media. On Friday, a statewide moment of silence will be held at 10 a.m. to honor workers killed while serving the commonwealth.

National Work Zone Awareness Week, which began in Virginia in 1997, has grown to include participation from states across the country, public transportation agencies, and various organizations.

Statistics show that work zone crashes remain a significant issue. In 2024, Virginia experienced 3,746 work zone crashes resulting in 1,536 injuries and 15 fatalities. Although there was a decrease in overall crash numbers and injuries compared to the previous year, fatalities increased from 13 to 15.

VDOT provides several tips for safely navigating work zones: stay alert, slow down, follow signs and flaggers, maintain a safe distance from other vehicles, and expect variable speed limits. They also advise against lane changes in work zones and note that enhanced fines of up to $500 can be applied for speeding in these areas.