Work Zone Q&A
Q Why is PENNDOT always working on the roads?   Q Why should I slow down when driving through a work area, when no one else does?
A

Pennsylvania's highway system needs constant repair and maintenance.  In some cases new roads must be constructed.  That's PENNDOT's job.  And, since weather restricts us from working year round, we must complete the majority of our improvements during the warm weather months.

* * * * *

   A Two wrongs don't make a right.  You should slow down even if other traffic is speeding through the work area.  As long as motorists continue to ignore work-area speed restrictions, the likelihood of accidents and injuries occurring to highway workers and you remains.

* * * * *
Q Why Doesn't PENNDOT work at night when there is less traffic?   Q Sometimes when I drive through a work site not everyone is working.  Why?
A Whenever possible, we do.  But poor visibility limits what we can do.  Also the costs for overtime and additional equipment, such as flood lights, is higher.  

* * * * *

   A Often, projects require many specialized skills performed by a variety of people such as equipment operators, flag persons, laborers, and inspectors.  While all these people are necessary to compete the job, they cannot all work simultaneously.

* * * * *
Q Why must I slow down and change lanes a mile before a work site?   Q Why doesn't PENNDOT close the roads they are working on?
A In order to protect you and our people, we must warn drivers as far in advance as possible of traffic changes.  We begin merging and shifting traffic out of the lane in which we are working a least one-half mile before the work area.  This way, even a distracted driver has the time to safely move over and avoid the work area.

* * * * *

   A We try to minimize inconveniences to the public by avoiding, as much as possible, lengthy detours that can result in increased expense and additional travel time for motorists and the business community.  We only close roads when is is absolutely necessary to perform the work.

* * * * *
Q Must I slow down in a work zone if there are no signs telling me to do so?   Q Why does PENNDOT sometimes close two lanes when they're only working in one?
A Yes, you should.  In fact, in most of our work areas there is a posted and enforceable speed limit.  It is always good practice to reduce your speed any time you see the orange, work-area signs.

* * * * *

   A Usually, we only close the lane in which we are working.  But, some operations - such as concrete patching and joint sealing - require an additional lane be closed to provide room to work and do the job safely.

* * * * *
Q Sometimes there are work-area signs, but no work going on, why?   Q Why does PENNDOT work during rush hours?
A Usually signs are posted only when work is going on.  Long-term construction projects are the exception.  Also, some projects cover many miles and work may not be underway in all sections at the same time.  But, traffic flows more safely when it remains in a consistent pattern.  In other situations, crews are not always visible as they may be working under a bridge.

* * * * *

   A We try to avoid working during peak traffic times whenever possible.  Much of our highway work, however is completed by private contractors.  And there are times when they must work during "rush" hours to meet our deadlines.

* * * * *

 
Q Are all work zones PENNDOT work zones?    
A No.  Our larger construction projects are performed by private contractors.  Utility companies, developers and municipalities also work on or near roadways.

* * * * *