WisDOT joins law enforcement, industry partners to stress attentive driving in I-41 project work zone

Over the next six years, construction work is scheduled along Interstate 41 between Appleton and Green Bay to reduce congestion and enhance safety for thousands of travelers. Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT) Secretary Thompson today joined the Federal Highway Administration, state and county law enforcement and industry partners at a news conference in Appleton to emphasize the message of safe, responsible driving – especially in the I-41 project work zone.

“This reconstruction project is a major investment for northeast Wisconsin as crews transform this area, making travel so much better for those who live and work here, and the many others who visit our great state,” WisDOT Division Administrator Rebecca Burkel said. “As crews work day and night to rebuild this corridor, each of us has a role in keeping our roads safe. Every time we get behind the wheel, we must recommit to safe driving behaviors – slow down, be patient and avoid distractions at all times.”

According to WisDOT data, more than 2,100 crashes were recorded in Wisconsin work zones in 2023, resulting in nine deaths and more than 700 injuries. Speeding, tailgating and distracted driving are the leading causes of work zone crashes in Wisconsin. State law prohibits texting while driving on any road. It is also illegal to use a hand-held mobile device in work zones and in areas surrounding emergency response vehicles with flashing lights. Motorists are urged to buckle up and put their phone down when driving.​​

“Together with the Wisconsin State Patrol and local law enforcement agencies, we patrol the I-41 work zone to enforce the rules of the road and keep everyone safe,” said Captain Nate Borman with Outagamie County Sheriff’s Office. “This section of interstate will see many changes over the years and we urge drivers not to be complacent when traveling through the work zone. Please pay attention, watch your speed and leave room to brake.”

Today’s event held at the I-41 Project Field Office in Appleton continues WisDOT’s season-long campaign to increase work zone safety messaging across the state. In Wisconsin, work zones include highway construction and rolling maintenance operations as well as emergency response, municipal projects and utility work along local roads. WisDOT engages with county highway partners, Wisconsin Counties Association, Wisconsin Transportation Builders Association and others to promote safe driving in work zones.

How can people help?

• ​Drive safely. Be courteous, avoid distractions and obey posted speed limits.​
• Park the phone when driving. T​texting while driving is illegal statewide and talking on a hand-held mobile device is illegal in work zones.
• Give space to emergency responders. Move over or slow down for emergency vehicles stopped along a highway with their warning lights flashing. That includes police and fire vehicles, ambulances, tow trucks and highway maintenance vehicles. In addition, state law restricts use of a cell phone in areas surrounding those vehicles.​
• Buckle Up, Phone Down. Take the pledge at wisconsindot.gov/BUPD​.

Visit WisDOT's work zone safety website​ for more tips and information.