Sooner State News

Spring marks an increase in work zones across Oklahoma. To address this, the Oklahoma Department of Transportation (ODOT) and the Oklahoma Turnpike Authority (OTA) are introducing a campaign to promote safety for road workers and drivers. The campaign calls on everyone to "play their part" in ensuring safety on the roads. It begins with a Teen Traffic Day in Seiling on April 1 and runs throughout the month with various activities to promote awareness.

ODOT Executive Director Tim Gatz will inaugurate the campaign at the April commission meeting, reading a proclamation from Governor Kevin Stitt that declares April 21-25 as Oklahoma Work Zone Awareness Week. The campaign will feature public service announcements emphasizing that everyone in a work zone deserves to return home safely. With over 100 active work zones expected during the summer, ODOT and OTA stress the importance of cooperation to maintain road safety.

“Ultimately, the goal is to raise awareness about work zone safety and make Oklahoma’s roads safer for everyone,” said Gatz. He emphasized the importance of every individual's actions in protecting workers and fellow drivers so everyone can make it home safely.

Seventy-three ODOT and OTA employees have died in duty since the department's inception, including a recent incident involving Jaden Jackson in December. Frequently, work zone fatalities stem from inattentive driving, following too closely, and speeding. Simple measures such as slowing down, avoiding distractions, and wearing seatbelts can significantly enhance safety.

Joe Echelle, OTA executive director, stated, “As the ACCESS Oklahoma long-range plan continues to ramp up, motorists will see more work zones on the state’s turnpikes this summer. Work zones are a partnership between workers and motorists, and we all must do our part to keep everyone safe.” He noted that speeding is a major risk factor, stressing the need to adhere to posted speed limits to prevent accidents.

The campaign invites public participation to improve road safety, offering a series of events:

- April 1: Governor Stitt's proclamation for Oklahoma Work Zone Awareness Week and a student safety event in Seiling.

- April 2: The Oklahoma City Thunder will host a Work Zone Safe Night during their game against the Detroit Pistons.

- April 7: Work zone awareness PSA to be shared at the Oklahoma Transportation Commission meeting and on social media. Commissioners will wear orange in solidarity.

- April 10: A student safety day in Tulsa with ODOT crews and other organizations, promoting road safety.

- April 11: A moment of silence to honor fallen ODOT and OTA workers.

- April 15: "Go Orange for Work Zone Safety Day" where participants are encouraged to wear orange and share photos on social media.

- April 23: Iconic Oklahoma landmarks will glow orange in support.

- April 1-30: Daily work zone safety tips on ODOT and OTA social media.

- April 2, 9, 16, 23, 30: “Work Zone Wednesday” messages to be broadcast on highway and turnpike boards.

This April, ODOT and OTA invite the public to participate and ensure safer roads through cooperation. For further details or to engage with the campaign, visit DriveSafelyOklahoma.com.