Work Zone Patrols: Safety in Action

MERIDIAN, Idaho – As National Work Zone Awareness Week approaches April 21–25, the Idaho State Police is highlighting law enforcement’s crucial role in protecting Idaho’s road workers, contractors, and drivers. Every year, ISP troopers step up patrols in active construction areas to deter unsafe driving behaviors and reduce the risk of tragedy in work zones.

Work zones are dangerous without enforcement, from speeders to distracted drivers. Last year alone, troopers statewide made thousands of contacts in construction areas. These weren’t just numbers—they were critical interventions to protect lives.

“Our goal isn’t writing tickets—it’s about changing behavior,” said Lieutenant Colonel Fritz Zweigart. “Every cone on the highway represents someone’s son, daughter, friend, or coworker. Speeding through a work zone puts lives—and your own—in danger. Slow down, pay attention, and help everyone get home safely.”

The Idaho Transportation Department (ITD) has funded increased patrols in construction zones to enhance public and worker safety. Here are a few snapshots of last year’s efforts:

District 1 – I-90 and SH-41 Interchange:

• Between June and November, troopers made 551 contacts, issuing 230 speeding citations, 32 aggressive driving citations, and seven hands-free violations. Five impaired drivers were removed from the roadway.

District 4 – I-84 Burley and Heyburn Interchanges:

• Troopers dedicated over 2,300 hours, issuing nearly 1,500 citations, including 977 for speeding and 450 for excessive speeding—one driver clocked in at 117 mph. The area also saw 151 aggressive driving citations and six DUI arrests.

District 5 – System Interchange:

• ISP conducted 922 contacts over 542 hours, resulting in 355 speeding citations and one DUI arrest.

These patrols aren’t about quotas—they’re about prevention. Education and enforcement go together to protect workers and ensure drivers don’t become part of a tragic statistic. In 2025, ITD has allocated $450,000 statewide to support additional trooper coverage in work zones. That support and the dedication of troopers, many working overtime amidst staffing shortages, speak volumes about our shared commitment to safety.

Whether you’re a daily commuter or passing through, remember to slow down, put your phone away, and give workers the space they need to stay safe.

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Posted in District 1 - Northern Idaho, District 2 - Central Idaho, District 3 - Western Idaho, District 4 - Southern Idaho, District 5 - Southeastern Idaho, District 6 - Eastern Idaho