Idaho Urges Drivers to Slow Down in Work Zones as Construction Season Begins

ITD launches awareness campaign focused on protecting road crews and preventing crashes

Apr. 17, 2026 at 3:53am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

An abstract, sweeping image of a construction vehicle on the highway, with the vehicle transformed into vibrant, chaotic streaks of color through a slow-shutter, panning camera technique, conveying the speed and movement of work zone traffic.Blurred motion of a construction vehicle on the highway captures the dynamic energy and potential hazards of work zones across Idaho.Boise Today

The Idaho Transportation Department is calling on drivers to slow down and stay alert in work zones as construction activity increases across the state. The reminder comes as part of National Work Zone Awareness Week, with this year's theme emphasizing how driver behavior can help prevent crashes and protect road workers.

Why it matters

Work zone safety is a critical issue, with Idaho recording 904 work zone crashes in 2024 that resulted in 9 fatalities and an estimated $188 million in economic impact. By urging drivers to exercise caution, the campaign aims to reduce incidents and protect the state's transportation crews who are working to maintain and improve Idaho's roads.

The details

According to ITD, work zones can appear in a variety of locations, from busy city streets to rural highways, and may change frequently depending on construction needs. The department is encouraging drivers to plan ahead using the Idaho 511 system, follow posted signs, and remain attentive behind the wheel. To support the campaign, ITD has launched a weeklong video series featuring stories from workers across the state, aimed at reinforcing the importance of safe driving habits.

  • National Work Zone Awareness Week is scheduled for April 20–24, 2026.
  • In 2024, Idaho recorded 904 work zone crashes, including 9 fatalities.

The players

Idaho Transportation Department (ITD)

The state agency responsible for maintaining and improving Idaho's transportation infrastructure, including roads, highways, and bridges.

Dave Kuisti

Chief Deputy at the Idaho Transportation Department, who emphasized the shared responsibility between drivers and road crews for work zone safety.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Idaho drivers know what it means to look out for their neighbors. The men and women in our work zones are Idahoans too; parents, friends, and community members. A few extra seconds of patience on the road can be the difference between a close call and a tragedy.”

— Dave Kuisti, Chief Deputy, Idaho Transportation Department

What’s next

The Idaho Transportation Department will continue its work zone safety awareness campaign throughout the construction season, with a focus on educating drivers and enforcing speed limits in active work zones.

The takeaway

This campaign highlights the critical need for drivers to slow down and stay alert when navigating work zones, as their actions can directly impact the safety of road crews and the overall efficiency of construction projects across Idaho. By promoting shared responsibility and emphasizing the human impact of work zone incidents, the ITD aims to reduce crashes and protect the state's transportation infrastructure.