TOMAHAWK, Wis. (WSAW) - The early hints of summery conditions recently have ushered in another season in Wisconsin: construction season. You might find yourself getting frustrated due to traffic holdups, but the workers on the roads are asking everyone to stay patient for both their safety and yours.
David Karnes serves as the chief of Traffic Systems & Management at the Wisconsin Department of Transportation. In this role, he supervises the state-wide traffic management center aimed at ensuring safety on Wisconsin’s highways. The responsibilities of his division include handling traffic incidents and collaborating with local authorities for prompt emergency reactions.
He understands that one of the few things everyone agrees on is the poor state of roads and the abundance of potholes. We should mainly attribute this issue to the harsh Wisconsin winters. The solution? Commence road construction.
"One aspect of summertime in Wisconsin is that work zones seem to appear all over the state, correct? These construction areas frequently result in lane changes, decreased speed limits, and possible unexpected halts," explained Karnes.
And for those behind the wheel who aren't focused, the outcomes can be fatal.
Over the past five years, we've seen upwards of 10,000 accidents occur within construction areas, leading to over 3,600 injuries and resulting in at least 56 fatalities.
Tourists heading to Northwoods will face significant construction work along Highway 8 in Lincoln County this coming summer. Teams plan to resurface Highway 8 between McCord Road and approximately County Highway L. They also intend to update the railroad crossing, install new guardrails along the Tomahawk River, mark areas designated for snowmobilers, incorporate rumble strips to enhance cyclist safety, and undertake additional improvements.
The total length of the road section is approximately 15 miles. The project is anticipated to be completed by October. In the meantime, Karnes advises motorists to prioritize safety for all involved.
It is everybody's duty to drive safely and make responsible choices when they are at the steering wheel.
0 Comments