SAINT PAUL, Minn. — The Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT) paused work Monday in a statewide safety stand down to honor two construction contractors who died on Minnesota roads last week. The unprecedented pause allowed staff to reflect on the losses and recommit to safety in work zones.
“Safety is always our number one priority at MnDOT,” Commissioner Nancy Daubenberger said. “We will continue to work closely with our staff and contractors to improve our work zones to help ensure we all get home to our families safely.”
State Patrol Colonel Christina Bogojevic urged drivers to slow down and pay extra attention in work zones, emphasizing that every crash affects families, not just statistics. Labor and industry officials highlighted the importance of proper training, high-visibility clothing, and functioning equipment to prevent workplace fatalities.
Motorists are reminded to obey speed limits, drive undistracted, move over for workers, and check traffic conditions before traveling.
The pause also honored Pierre Mack, of LIUNA Local 563, and Adam Smith, of IUOE 139, with unions and industry leaders calling for renewed vigilance in construction safety.
