The Alaska Department of Transportation & Public Facilities (DOT&PF) announced on April 17 that it will participate in National Work Zone Awareness Week from April 20 through April 24.
National Work Zone Awareness Week has been held for over two decades to highlight the importance of safety in road construction zones. This year’s theme, “Safe Actions Save Lives,” aims to remind drivers that their decisions can impact the safety of workers and fellow travelers. The department said its continued focus on encouraging safe driving behavior helps reduce work zone crashes and ensures everyone gets home safely.
“As we recognize Work Zone Awareness Week and Go Orange Day, we’re reinforcing a simple message—safe actions save lives,” said Alaska DOT&PF Commissioner Ryan Anderson. “This construction season, our crews and contractors are working in active corridors across Alaska to improve the transportation system we all depend on. These are real work environments, and the choices drivers make matter. We ask everyone to stay alert, slow down, and do their part to protect the people working on our roads.”
DOT&PF advised drivers that slowing down, staying attentive, following posted signs, and avoiding distractions such as mobile devices can help prevent crashes in work zones. Travelers are encouraged to plan for extra travel time during construction season and check current road conditions at 511.alaska.gov or by using the Alaska 511 app.
April 22 is designated as Go Orange Day during which Alaskans are invited to wear orange or high-visibility safety gear in support of work zone crews locally and nationwide. The department invites residents to share photos of themselves wearing safety gear via email for possible posting on social media using tags #GoOrange4Safety #NWZAW and #SafeAlaskaWorkZones.
The department oversees a wide range of infrastructure across Alaska including airports, ferries serving multiple communities along marine routes, highways spanning thousands of miles, and hundreds of public facilities.
