April 15, 2024 (Lincoln, Neb.) — The Nebraska Department of Transportation (NDOT), the
Associated General Contractors (AGC) Nebraska chapter, and partner contractors across the state
are recognizing Work Zone Awareness Week, which occurs nationally from April 15-19. This national
effort, sponsored by the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), emphasizes simple actions everyone
can take.
“The safety of NDOT’s people and our fellow contractors who are out in work zones, as well as
Nebraskans and our state’s guests traveling through, is not a coincidence. Maintaining the quality of
life we have in Nebraska requires a lot of commitment, intention and cooperation,” says Vicki Kramer,
NDOT Director. “We all must prioritize their safety by avoiding phone use while driving, slowing down,
and remaining watchful when driving through work zones in Nebraska. This is everyone’s responsibility.”
Governor Pillen signed a proclamation declaring this week as Work Zone Awareness Week to serve as
a reminder for everyone to drive safely this construction season and remain vigilant.
“One of our biggest concerns when it comes to the contractors working hard to build our state’s
infrastructure is distracted driving. When you see orange cones and signs, please slow down and pay
attention. Our goal at the end of the day is to get all construction workers and members of the
travelling public home safe to their families, said Katie Wilson, AGC Executive Director.
NDOT and AGC encourage all motorists to slow down, be alert, and give construction workers the
space they need to work. Together, we can create a safer environment for those who are at the
highest risk in work zones.
Tyler Chicoine, President of Garcia-Chicoine Enterprises stated, “As a firm that does a large amount
of our work on the interstate, safety is top of mind. There is only so much that my crews can do to stay
safe. This week and every week, we urge drivers to take extra precautions when driving in our work
zones. We are working each day to make the roads more safe for Nebraskans and ask that drivers pay
attention as we do that work.”
NDOT and AGC encourage all motorists to slow down, be alert, and give construction workers the
space they need to work. Together, we can create a safer environment for those who are at the
highest risk in work zones.
For video and photos from today’s event, please visit: ndot.info/WorkZoneSafety.
Visit 511.nebraska.gov for a real-time look at Nebraska traffic. Stay safe – plan ahead, follow detours,
and always remember to buckle up, and phone down.
