(CBS DETROIT) – The Michigan Department of Transportation’s Clare Welcome Center will host the National Work Zone Memorial over the Fourth of July weekend for the third year in a row.
The monument, which was unveiled in 2002 by the American Traffic Safety Services Foundation, travels across the U.S. to raise awareness about workplace safety and safe driving. It lists the names of more than 1,600 highway workers, motorists, pedestrians, law enforcement officers, public safety officials and children who have died in work zone accidents across the US.
The cost to host the monument in the welcome center, which measures 7 feet high and 20 feet wide, is sponsored by the association’s Michigan Chapter and is open to the public.
In addition, a new virtual monument is also available that can be used for free.
As the holiday weekend approaches, motorist and work zone safety is on high alert. Nearly 2.6 million Michiganders are expected to travel 50 miles or more between June 29 and July 7, according to AAA. Motorists are expected to notice an increase in roadworks and orange barrels during this busy season.
MDOT is asking drivers to be patient, slow down and drive safely, especially when approaching work zones.
Data shows that Michigan work zones suffered 20 fatalities, 1,896 injuries and nearly 7,237 accidents in 2023.
