The Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission (PA Turnpike) has launched its annual 'Go Orange' campaign, aimed at enhancing safety in work zones. The campaign, which runs from May to October, encourages drivers to slow down and pay attention when passing through work zones. It also highlights the vulnerability of highway workers, with more than 40 Pennsylvania Turnpike workers having lost their lives while performing their duties.
"This campaign emphasizes our daily commitment to making the Pennsylvania Turnpike safer for everyone who travels on it, including our maintenance crews who are within inches of passing vehicles,” said Mark Compton, CEO for the PA Turnpike.
The campaign includes a Lost Worker Memorial, which will be displayed at various locations throughout Pennsylvania during the summer. The PA Turnpike is also encouraging its employees and the public to wear orange on Wednesdays to show their support for road crews and remind motorists to drive safely.
Despite a record-breaking low of traffic fatalities in 2019, and fewer cars on the road in 2020 due to the pandemic, deaths on Pennsylvania roads have increased 15% from 2019-2022.
The Go Orange campaign has been successful in reducing work zone crash rates by more than 30% over the last five years. The PA Turnpike operates a variety of safety initiatives, including the Work Zone Speed Safety Camera Program, five District Safety Committees, and Safety Days for its employees.
The campaign also includes pop-up displays at five service plaza stations where travelers can learn more about the campaign, sign a pledge to drive safely, and obtain Go Orange merchandise.