Road construction season is now underway, and the Van Buren County Road Commission is urging drivers to be prepared for the crews that will be out working.

Van Buren County Road Commission Managing Director Bret Witkowski tells us work zone safety is a top priority as construction zones present changing traffic patterns, reduced speeds, and workers operating close to traffic. He asks all drivers to remember those workers want to make it home at the end of the day.

“When we close roads, it’s not to make people’s life difficult,” Witkowski said. “It just needs to be done to get the work done safely. And sadly, our agency, along with Berrien County, know all too well when people are distracted and not paying attention or under the influence of substances, whether it’s alcohol or drugs, tragic things can happen.”

Witkowski says the main thing is to be patient.

“Take time. Be patient, which seems to be a lost art in today’s world for some people. And when you go through them, don’t say obscenities or give them the finger or anything like that. Just listen to what’s going on and pay attention and just have some patience.”

This is National Work Zone Awareness Week, when drivers are urged to slow down, stay alert, and help keep everyone safe.

Witkowski says drivers should be prepared for reduced speed limits and changes to traffic patterns, eliminate distractions, obey signs and flaggers, and stay alert. He notes it only takes a distraction of one second to change lives forever.