Trending
From staff reports
HARRISBURG -- State officials are urging drivers to slow down and stay alert in work zones as construction season begins across Pennsylvania.
The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation and the Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission joined industry partners Tuesday to highlight work zone safety during National Work Zone Awareness Week, April 20-24.
Gov. Josh Shapiro proclaimed the awareness week in Pennsylvania under the theme "Safe actions save lives."
PennDOT reported 1,393 work zone crashes in 2025, resulting in 12 deaths. Speeding was a leading factor. The agency also recorded 428 work zone intrusions, including 16 injuries to workers.
"Even one fatality is one too many," PennDOT Executive Deputy Secretary Larry Shifflet said. "Please slow down and pay attention in work zones."
Pennsylvania Turnpike CEO Mark Compton said safety efforts have reduced crash rates by more than 20%.
Officials also highlighted enforcement tools such as the Work Zone Speed Safety Camera program and driver fines and penalties for violations in active work zones.
Since 1970, PennDOT has lost 93 workers in the line of duty, and the Turnpike has lost 45 since 1940.