The New Hampshire Department of Transportation (NHDOT) is joining transportation agencies nationwide in recognizing National Work Zone Awareness Week (NWZAW), April 20–24, 2026. This annual campaign has, for more than 20 years, encouraged drivers to slow down, stay alert, and make safe choices in and around roadway work zones.

Work zones are essential to maintaining and improving our transportation system, but they also bring changing and often unpredictable conditions for drivers. Work Zone Awareness Week serves as an important reminder that lives have been lost in these areas and that safety depends on every driver’s attention and care.

“Work zone safety is a shared responsibility. Our crews are committed to doing their jobs safely, and we ask the public to do the same by slowing down, staying alert, and respecting the work zone,” said Commissioner David Rodrigue. “Our workforce is made up of people from communities across New Hampshire and New England, and every time you enter a work zone, you’re passing someone’s neighbor, friend, or family member.”

As part of the week’s observance, the public is encouraged to take part in Go Orange Day on Wednesday, April 22. Wearing orange is a simple but visible way to show support for highway workers and raise awareness about work zone safety. Participants are encouraged to share their support on social media using #NWZAW, #Orange4Safety, and #NHDOT.

On Friday, April 24, at 10:00 AM, NHDOT will hold a moment of silence at the Public Works Memorial, 7 Hazen Drive in Concord, to honor those who have lost their lives in work zone incidents.