MNDOT pauses work in statewide safety stand down
ST. PAUL, Minn. — The Minnesota Department of Transportation paused work statewide Monday.
The first-ever statewide safety stand down was to honor the tragic loss of two construction contractors on Minnesota roads last week and to focus on improving safety in work zones.
Officials say the stand down is a deliberate pause in work to reflect on the recent lives lost, but it is also a time for staff to recommit to safety standards.
“I am deeply saddened and concerned by the recent tragic incidents that took the lives of two contractors working to improve Minnesota roads. Today, MnDOT staff took an unprecedented step to pause work and honor the lives of these two men and to recommit and focus on the safety of every person who works for and with our agency,” said MnDOT Commissioner Nancy Daubenberger. “Safety is always our number one priority at MnDOT, and we will continue to work closely with our staff and contractors to improve our work zones to help ensure we all get home to our families safely.”
MNDOT says that motorist should do their part to keep workers safe in the following ways:
- Obey posted speed limits. The fine for speeding in a work zone is $300.
- Drive undistracted. Avoid using cell phones, mobile devices, adjusting the radio, or even eating while in work zones.
- Move over. Give workers room to safely complete their work.
- Know before you go. Get real-time information about traffic and road conditions at www.511mn.org or get the free 511mn smartphone app at Google Play or the App Store.
- Be patient. Expect delays, especially during peak travel times.
- Do the zipper merge.
- Avoid making unnecessary lane changes.
- Never enter a road blocked with barriers or cones.
