INDOT marks official start of 2026 construction and maintenance season, urges importance of driving safely in work zones

Earlier today, the Indiana Department of Transportation officially recognized National Work Zone Awareness Week as both maintenance and construction projects begin across the Hoosier state.

INDOT Commissioner Lyndsay Quist was joined by Indiana State Police, Indiana Constructors Inc. (ICI) and the Indiana Laborers District Council (LiUNA!) near the Clear Path I-465 project site on the northeast side of Indianapolis to announce $2.6 billion in transportation infrastructure projects set to take place across Indiana this year.

"Drivers across the Hoosier State will encounter orange barrels and active work sites this spring and summer," said Governor Mike Braun. "Making improvements to our state's transportation infrastructure is critical to boosting economic growth and quality of life, and it takes all of us slowing down and paying close attention to ensure safety for everyone on the road."

"More than 1,000 projects are planned on state highways, U.S. routes and interstates this construction season,” said Commissioner Quist. "130 of those aim to improve traffic flow and safety, and over 6,200 lane miles of pavement will be resurfaced or replaced. It's vital that motorists keep safety top of mind when traveling through work zones in an effort to protect themselves, their passengers, other drivers, and road workers." 

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the majority of injuries and fatalities in work zones involve drivers or their passengers. 

"In 2025, 16 people were killed and more than 1,500 were hurt in Indiana work zones," said Secretary of Transportation and Infrastructure Matt Ubelhor. "While we've seen improvement in these numbers in recent years, there is still work to be done. We are asking for help from drivers to continue bringing these numbers down by slowing down, avoiding distractions behind the wheel, and driving unimpaired, especially in work zones."