Construction Zone Safety Concerns and Reminders

With a number of construction improvements underway throughout the community, we would like to remind the public of important safety tips and regulations on construction zone safety, and also express our appreciation of the public’s patience as permanent roadway improvements continue.

The most important factor with any construction project is the safety of motorists, bicyclists, pedestrians, and construction staff. In the past several weeks, there have been a number of “near-misses” with construction workers nearly struck by vehicles in construction zones, primarily due to speeding, distracted driving, and disregard of traffic control devices and signage.

In addition to public safety, infrastructure damage can result when motorists disobey road closure signs and move orange traffic cones, resulting in additional project cost and delays. We would like to remind the public of the following safety tips and regulations regarding construction zones:

Stay Alert and Minimize Distractions

• Dedicate your full attention to the roadway.
• Avoid changing the radio station, using a mobile phone, eating, or other distractions that can remove your concentration from the road, especially in construction zones.
• Watch brake lights on vehicles ahead and be prepared to stop.
• Be aware that traffic patterns can change daily and anticipate delays.

Be Aware of Construction Signage and Meanings

• “Construction Ahead” signs indicate that a motorist or bicyclist is entering a construction work zone. Be mindful of signage, lane closures, and construction workers. 
• “Road Closed” signs indicate that the road is completely closed to all traffic. It is prohibited for both motorists and bicyclists to enter any portion of the roadway. 
• “Road Closed to Thru Traffic” indicates the road is closed for traffic traveling through the site; only property owners who live directly on the project site should access the road – all other motorists are prohibited from using the street. Construction engineering staff works directly with property owners to access their driveway or property legally and safely. Failure to obey a traffic control device, or moving a traffic control device such a road closed sign, is both illegal and dangerous. 
• Construction often requires closure of sidewalks. Be alert for signs that indicate “Sidewalk Closed” which means that the area is off-limits for bicycles and pedestrians.

Plan ahead

• Visit the city’s website to see construction projects underway, or sign up to receive text alerts on road closures so you can adjust your route and help avoid delays and detours. 
• Receive text alerts
• See current road closures

Obey the Posted Speed Limit

• Construction workers may be present just feet away from where traffic is moving through a construction zone.
• Fines may be doubled for moving traffic violations, such as speeding, through construction zones.
• Be prepared to slow down further if conditions indicate the need.

Property owners with questions or concerns on a project are encouraged to contact the City’s Construction Engineering Division: 319-286-5802. 

The public can read the entire Paving for Progress 10-year campaign and sign up for project e-mails and text alerts on the City’s website: www.cityofcr.com/pavingforprogress.