Summary

The Federal Highway Administration (FHwA) has expressed concern about construction zone safety for over 11 years, but this concern has not always been reflected in the safety provisions made by state highway agencies.

Unsafe conditions existed at all of the 26 construction sites visited in seven states. Designs for worksite safety varied widely from state to state and from project to project. Although FHwA has taken some actions to improve driving environments, these actions do not fully address the problems observed. By developing additional guidance on how and when to use traffic control devices, by improving field office inspection procedures, and by providing training, FHwA and the states can greatly improve the safety of motorists, pedestrians, and work crews in highway construction zones.