MnDOT honors fallen transportation workers for Worker Memorial Day
ST. PAUL, Minn. – The Minnesota Department of Transportation honors transportation workers who have been killed or injured while working on state highways in recognition of Worker Memorial Day. Since 1960, 36 MnDOT workers and 16 contractors have lost their lives while working on Minnesota highways.
Gov. Tim Walz has proclaimed April 28, 2024, as Worker Memorial Day in Minnesota and the Interstate 35W Bridge in Minneapolis was lit orange that night to honor the men and women who have died while working in work zones.
“Every day, hundreds of workers are out on Minnesota roads improving our transportation system and helping travelers stay safe,” said Commissioner Nancy Daubenberger. “These men and women are often only feet away from moving traffic. We need everyone’s help to keep workers and motorists safe – slow down, put away distractions and pay attention while driving in work zones.”
MnDOT reminds travelers that drivers and passengers suffer the majority of work zone deaths and injuries and the agency urges all drivers to follow these safety tips in work zones:
- Drive the speed limit. It helps create a consistent, more predictable traffic flow for everyone. The fine for speeding in a work zone is $300.
- Drive undistracted. Avoid using cell phones, mobile devices, adjusting the radio – even eating – while in a work zone.
- Move over. Give workers room to safely complete their work.
- Never enter a road blocked with barriers or cones.
- Know before you go. Get real-time information about traffic and road conditions at 511mn.org or download the free 511mn app at Google Play or the App Store.
- Be patient. Expect delays, especially during peak travel times.
- Do the zipper merge.
- Avoid unnecessary lane changes.
Visit MnDOT’s Transportation Worker Memorial website to see the list of fallen workers in Minnesota and the permanent worker memorial installation at MnDOT headquarters.
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