The Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT) honored transportation workers killed or injured on state highways in observance of Worker Memorial Day, recognized annually on April 28.
Since 1960, 36 MnDOT employees and 16 contractors have died while working on Minnesota roads.
To mark the occasion, Gov. Tim Walz has proclaimed April 28, as Worker Memorial Day in Minnesota. The Interstate 35 west Bridge in Minneapolis was lit orange in tribute to those who lost their lives in work zones.
“Hundreds of people are out on Minnesota roads working next to traffic every day, to keep travelers safe and improve roads, bridges and transportation systems we all rely on,” said Nancy Daubenberger, MnDOT commissioner, in a statement.
MnDOT reminds drivers that most injuries and fatalities in work zones involve motorists and passengers—not workers. The agency urges drivers to slow down, stay alert and follow posted work zone rules.
Key safety tips include obeying posted speed limits, driving without distractions, moving over for roadside crews and avoiding unnecessary lane changes.
A full list of fallen workers is available on MnDOT’s Transportation Worker Memorial website.
Source: Minnesota Department of Transportation, KTTC News
