April 21, 25 2025: Work Zone Awareness Week

WHEREAS, the State of Michigan recognizes that road construction and maintenance is vital for a safe, well-maintained road system for all Michigan families and businesses; and,

WHEREAS, we must protect construction, maintenance, and utility workers who courageously put their lives on the line to improve the safety and quality of life of those traveling Michigan roads; and

WHEREAS, in 2023, 21 people were killed and 1,896 were injured in work zone crashes and most often, drivers or their passengers are killed or injured in work zone crashes; and

WHEREAS, most work zone crashes are caused by inattentive or distracted drivers, and speeding is the leading cause of fatal work zone crashes; and

WHEREAS, the 2025 National Work Zone Awareness Week theme, “Respect the zone so we all get home,” reminds us to respect work zones so everyone can stay safe; and

WHEREAS, the Michigan Department of Transportation is dedicated to advancing culture and practices to put SAFETY FIRST in Michigan’s work zones; and

WHEREAS, Work Zone Awareness Week in Michigan is an opportunity to raise awareness for worker and road user safety by planning ahead, reducing speeds, minimizing distractions, and expecting the unexpected when approaching and passing work zones;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Gretchen Whitmer, governor of Michigan, and Garlin Gilchrist II, lieutenant governor of Michigan, do hereby proclaim April 21 – 25, 2025, as Work Zone Awareness Week in Michigan.