RALEIGH – The following are highlights from this week at the N.C. Department of Transportation. The stories below are also featured in
NCDOT Now, the department's weekly newscast.
Work Zone Awareness Week and Memorial
It’s Work Zone Awareness Week in North Carolina and the
National Work Zone Memorial traveled through our state. The Memorial was displayed at the Welcome Center along Interstate 95 in Northampton County.
The traveling exhibit honors people who have died in work zones, including construction workers, motorists, pedestrians, law enforcement officers, public safety officials and children. It lists the names of 1,592 people who died in work zones nationwide, including 36 people here in North Carolina.
NCDOT and the
Governor’s Highway Safety Program urge drivers to do their part to make work zones safer. Slow down, follow posted signs near work zones, and be mindful of crews working near the travel lanes.
Distracted Driving Awareness Month
April is Distracted Driving Awareness Month. Distractions unfortunately come in many forms for motorists, and they can hamper drivers’ reactions to changing traffic conditions or safety hazards. NCDOT reminds everyone to stay alert on the road. When you’re behind the wheel, the only thing you should be doing is driving.
Lt. Gov. Walter H. Dalton Highway Dedication
A section of highway in western North Carolina has been
dedicated to a former lieutenant governor. Nearly 6 miles of U.S. 74, from the Polk County line to U.S. 221, will now be known as the Lt. Governor Walter H. Dalton Highway. A ceremony was held earlier this week to unveil the signs honoring Dalton.
Dalton held a state Senate seat for six consecutive terms before being elected North Carolina’s 33rd lieutenant governor. He also contributed to his community and higher education.