ST. PAUL, Minn. — The Minnesota Department of Transportation will commemorate Workers Memorial Day with several events throughout the state today, April 28, honoring the fallen workers who died while working on MnDOT construction and maintenance projects.
“These deaths are tragic reminders of the dangers men and women face every day, while they keep Minnesota’s roads safe for all of us,” said Gov. Mark Dayton. “Today, we mourn their loss, honor their courage, and recognize the sacrifices of their loved ones.”
Since 1960, 34 MnDOT employees and 15 private sector contractors have died on the job while working on Minnesota highways.
Events on April 28 include:
– Mankato – 8:30 a.m., MnDOT Mankato district headquarters, 2151 Bassett Drive, Mankato
– Rochester – 9 a.m., MnDOT Rochester maintenance facility, 2900 48th St. NW, Rochester – Metro District– 10 a.m., 1500 West County Road B-2, Roseville
“These important observances occur at a time when crews are actively working on road projects around the state,” MnDOT Commissioner Zelle said. “MnDOT works on more than 300 state highway construction projects throughout Minnesota—that equates to a lot of orange barrels.”
In recognition of Worker Memorial Day, the Interstate 35W bridge in Minneapolis will be lit orange on Tuesday.
Printed copies of dedication plaques of fallen workers are available at the MnDOT library on the first floor of the Transportation building, 395 John Ireland Blvd., in St. Paul. The dedication plaques can also be viewed at www.mndot.gov/workermemorial/.
MnDOT reminds the public that motorists suffer the vast majority of work zone deaths and injuries.
MnDOT urges motorists to follow these recommendations in work zones: • Stay alert
• Watch for signs, equipment and workers
• Minimize distractions, such as using cell phones, eating or drinking • Avoid tailgating
• Follow posted speed limits and directional signs
• Stay in one lane while driving through a work zone
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