Work Zone Awareness Week Focuses on Safety Across Illinois Construction Zones

SPRINGFIELD –  Illinois officials and transportation agencies are wrapping up National Work Zone Awareness Week with a statewide safety campaign urging drivers to slow down and stay alert in construction areas. The Illinois Department of Transportation, Illinois State Police, Illinois Tollway, and other partners highlighted the theme Safe Actions Save Lives as construction season increases activity on roads and bridges. Transportation officials said roadway work is expanding this year as the state continues modernization projects and warned drivers to expect lane closures, reduced speeds, and workers near traffic. State Police reported 640 crashes in work zones during the first three months of 2026, including 91 injuries. Preliminary data showed 35 deaths in work zones in 2025, up from the previous year. Officials said the average is about 6,195 work zone crashes annually in Illinois, resulting in about 1,073 injuries. Safety efforts include expanded use of enforcement vans, additional patrols near construction sites, rumble strips, and a new data system to share real time work zone information with navigation apps. Officials also reminded drivers to wear seat belts, avoid distractions, follow posted speed limits, and allow extra space around construction equipment.