The PennDOT Workers’ Memorial, which honors the 88 employees who have lost their lives in the line of duty since 1970, was displayed on the District Office lawn.

The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT), the Constructors Association of Western Pennsylvania (CAWP) and the Pennsylvania State Police held a media briefing to urge safe driving throughout work zones in the region.

“The crew members' safety is extremely important and many people do not realize just how exposed and vulnerable to traffic they are in some work zones,” said Cheryl Moon-Sirianni, PennDOT District executive. “Unfortunately, not all of our crew members working in the field have made it home to their families.”

As part of the event, the PennDOT Workers' Memorial, which honors the 88 employees who have lost their lives in the line of duty since 1970, was displayed on the District Office lawn. Current PennDOT employees paid their respects by placing a single white flower in front of each memorial.

The memorial, made up of reflective vests and hardhats mounted on stands, traveled around the region.

As a reminder, PennDOT urges motorists to practice safe driving behaviors. Drivers must turn on vehicle headlights in all posted work zones, drive with extreme caution and abide by posted speed limits. Motorists caught driving 11 mph or more above the speed limit in active work zones automatically will lose their license for 15 days per state law.

“The Workers' Memorial is a somber reminder to motorists to please be careful and pay attention while driving through work zones because the consequences of one bad decision can be devastating,” said Moon-Sirianni. “It also reminds our crews of their safety training and to always be alert while working on a project.”

For more information, visit penndot.gov/safety.

Today's top stories

Iconic Hotel Being Demolished to Make Way for Baseball Stadium

MD 4 Project to Add Diamond Interchange

Volvo Construction Equipment Showcases New Products at North American Volvo Days

VIDEO: Anniversary of Highway Workers' Memorial Renews Calls for Work Zone Safety

Yanmar Compact Equipment Introduces New Line of Branded Attachments for Compact Track Loaders

Caterpillar Introduces Dynamic Energy Transfer Solution for Battery, Diesel-Electric Mining Equipment

Five Finalists Compete for Grand Prize Makeover in Bobcat Park and Rec Makeover Contest

VIDEO: Students From Washington, Ohio Earn Top Honors in Annual ARTBA Transportation Video Contest