The Michigan Department of Transportation announced on April 13 that National Work Zone Awareness Week will take place from April 20 to April 24, highlighting the theme “Safe actions save lives.” The announcement comes as preliminary statistics show that in 2025, there were approximately 6,000 crashes and 25 fatalities—including three workers and 22 motorists—in Michigan work zones.
The focus on work zone safety is intended to reduce the number of injuries and deaths among both drivers and construction workers. National Work Zone Awareness Week (NWZAW) has been observed for more than two decades as a public campaign to encourage safer behaviors by all road users. “Fixing the roads benefits everyone, and we must all sustain focus and work together to create a safe environment on our roadways and work zones,” said Gov. Gretchen Whitmer. “The number one safety feature in every vehicle is always the driver. Being vigilant and cautious behind the wheel will save lives.”
To address ongoing challenges, safety experts from across Michigan are scheduled to meet at Dow Diamond in Midland on Monday, April 20. Representatives from organizations such as the Michigan State Police, MDOT, MIOSHA (Michigan Occupational Safety and Health Administration), ATSSA (American Traffic Safety Services Association), Dow Chemical Company, LEO (Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity), MITA (Michigan Infrastructure & Transportation Association), along with several guest speakers including Art Leman of Dow Chemical, Brian Sarkella of ATSSA’s Michigan Chapter, Dan Maki of MIOSHA’s Construction Safety Division, Greg Brooks of MITA, MSP Col. James F. Grady II, Danielle and Aaron Bellgowan as special guests, MDOT Chief Operations Officer Gregg Brunner—and representatives from the Governor’s Office—will discuss new innovations for improving work zone safety.
As part of broader efforts like Toward Zero Deaths—a national vision aimed at eliminating roadway fatalities—MDOT supports NWZAW alongside partners nationwide to promote safer travel for all road users.
In addition to its highway responsibilities spanning nearly 10,000 miles—including M-, I-, US-routes—and more than 4,800 bridges across seven regions statewide according to its official website, MDOT also oversees non-motorized trails stretching over 2,700 miles; maintains railroads; manages airports; employs more than 2,800 people; operates multiple service centers; maintains transit programs; upholds aviation standards; supports public transit services; ensures bridge upkeep; manages non-motorized trail networks; sets transportation safety standards according to its official website.
On Wednesday during NWZAW week—”Wear Orange Wednesday”—the public is encouraged to wear orange clothing in support of work zone crews using hashtags #Orange4Safety #GoOrangeDay #NWZAW when sharing photos online.
