National Work Zone Awareness Week reminds drivers: Safe Actions Save Lives

April 23, 2026

National Work Zone Awareness Week (NWZAW) runs from April 20–24 and serves as an important reminder to slow down, stay alert, and move with caution in and around roadway work zones. This year’s theme, “Safe Actions Save Lives,” highlights the shared responsibility we all have to protect roadway workers and the traveling public.

NWZAW began as a national effort to bring attention to work zone safety and honor the workers who help keep our roads safe and our communities connected. Over the years, the campaign has grown into a nationwide awareness week supported by transportation partners across the country. The message remains simple but vital: every choice behind the wheel matters.

Each year, thousands of people are injured in work zones, and nearly 900 lives are lost in work zone crashes. These incidents are preventable, which is why drivers are urged to eliminate distractions, reduce speed, and pay close attention to signs, cones, lane shifts, and workers on the roadway. Roadway workers deserve to make it home safely at the end of every shift, just like every driver and passenger deserves to make it home safely at the end of the day.

In support of NWZAW, city staff went orange to help raise awareness and show appreciation for the people who work every day to keep our roads moving. We encourage everyone to join us in spreading the message of safety throughout the week and beyond.

group of people standing outside wearing orange taken from a drone

Safe actions save lives. Please drive carefully in work zones.