Source: rsgreen89 via flickr
Source: rsgreen89 via flickr
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The Minnesota Department of Transportation will commemorate Worker Memorial Day with several events throughout the state Monday, April 29, honoring the fallen workers who died while working on MnDOT construction and maintenance projects.

 “The passing of these workers is a tragic reminder of the dangers men and women face while keeping Minnesota’s roads safe for the driving public,” said Transportation Commissioner Charlie Zelle. “It is important that we honor all workers who lost their lives on-the-job by using extra caution in work zones."

 The agency’s statewide observance to commemorate the day includes 10 seconds of silence. Since 1960, 33 MnDOT employees and 16 private sector contractors have lost their lives on the job while working on Minnesota highways.

 In recognition of Worker Memorial Day, the I-35W bridge in Minneapolis will be lit orange from midnight-11:59 p.m. Monday, April 29.

 MnDOT reminds the public that motorists suffer the vast majority of work zone deaths and injuries.


MnDOT urges motorists to follow these recommendations in work zones:

•     Stay alert

•     Watch for signs, equipment and workers

•     Minimize distractions, such as using cell phones, eating or drinking

•     Avoid tailgating

•     Follow posted speed limits and directional signs

•     Stay in one lane while driving through a work zone

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