Last week, the California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) honored 194 workers who have died on the state highway system since 1921 during its annual memorial ceremony.
This year’s event paid special tribute to Alexander Rodish, an equipment operator, who was struck and killed in 2024 while working on Interstate 5.
“We mourn alongside the family, friends and coworkers of Alexander Rodish, who lost his life while helping to build a safer state highway system,” said Tony Tavares, Caltrans director, at the ceremony. “His legacy will continue to inspire us.”
A display of 194 orange cones arranged in a diamond shape represented each fallen worker. Two black cones honored all highway workers killed, including contractors and first responders, and Rodish specifically.
The ceremony emphasized Caltrans’ commitment to safety, highlighting the department’s 2022 Director’s Policy on Road Safety, which aims to eliminate traffic fatalities by 2050 through a Safe System approach.
April is National Distracted Driving Awareness Month, and officials used the event to urge drivers to stay alert, especially in work zones.
Flags flew at half-staff at the State Capitol, where the dome was lit orange in tribute.
Source: California Department of Transportation, Daily Republic
