IDOT and Partners Unveil National Work Zone Memorial Wall at Illinois State Fair

SPRINGFIELD - Illinois Transportation Secretary Gary Hannig joined by the Illinois State Police, American Traffic Safety Services Association (ATSSA), and other safety partners today recognized the tragic loss of life in Illinois work zones by unveiling the National Work Zone Memorial Wall.  The memorial wall is a living tribute to the memory of the men, women and children who have died in work zones.

"Roadway safety is a top priority at the Illinois Department of Transportation," said Illinois Transportation Secretary Gary Hannig.  "Our goal is to bring the total number of roadway fatalities to zero, and that includes lives lost in work zones.  The National Work Zone Memorial Wall not only commemorates the tragic loss of life in work zones but it also raises awareness of the importance of driving safely.  Every life counts."

"Today the Illinois State Police re-affirms our commitment to enhancing the safety of the motoring public, construction zone workers, and emergency personnel especially in areas where highway construction is occurring", said Illinois State Police Acting Director Jonathon Monken. "Our goal is to reduce the number of names added each year to the Work Zone Memorial Wall through proactive enforcement measures."

Illinois has made significant strides in achieving its goal of zero fatalities in work zones and on Illinois roadways by significantly and continuously reducing the total number of roadway fatalities over the past few years.  In fact, last year, Illinois experienced the lowest number of roadway fatalities since 1921.  This accomplishment was due in part to strategies implemented through effective partnerships including roadway infrastructure improvements, signing enhancements, and automated work zone speed enforcement among others.

"ATSSA appreciates the opportunity to bring the National Work Zone Memorial Wall to the Illinois State Fair and showcase the importance of work zone safety. Working with Illinois' safety partners to create awareness of the importance of roadway safety features helps drive traffic-related fatalities towards zero."

The Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) is utilizing a media campaign, among other initiatives, to create awareness regarding the dangers associated with work zones.  IDOT's See Orange. Slow Down. Save Lives Campaign includes audio and visual public service announcements to effectively reach motorists statewide.

More information about IDOT's Work Zone Safety Campaign can be found at http://www.dot.state.il.us/safety.html.  In addition, for information regarding the National Work Zone Memorial Wall, please visit http://www.atssa.com/cs/work-zone-memorial.