Browsers that can not handle javascript will not be able to access some features of this site.
Skip Navigation
Michigan Department of TransportationMichigan.gov banner
Michigan.gov Home MDOT Home | Site Map | Contact MDOT | FAQ | State Web Sites
Printer Friendly Version Printer Friendly   Text Only Version Text Version  Share this page.
FAQ
  Construction
When I drive through some construction areas, I see speed limit signs and orange barrels, but no workers. If there is no work going on at the site, why are posted speed limits so low and why are all the barrels still out there?
 
Answer:
MDOT is working to minimize the adverse affects of highway construction on motorists.

Guidelines for speed limits in Michigan work zones were revised in 2006.  Motorists are required to reduce their speed to 45 mph in any work zone where workers are present. If no workers are present, motorists should maintain the posted speed limit. More information on this change is available in the Safety Programs FAQ.

Another aspect of this program is nighttime construction. You may not see anyone working in these areas until the sun and traffic volumes go down. On other projects, contractors are not allowed to work during busy hours. All highway construction work is normally suspended during holidays. Other factors such as inspection activities, soil conditions, weather factors and production schedule may also give the appearance of minimal activity, but greatly impact the construction of the project.


Michigan Business One Stop
Link to Department and Agencies Web Site Index
Link to Statewide Online Services Index
Link to Statewide Web-based Surveys
Link to RSS feeds available on this site
FAQ Categories
 •  About MDOT
 •  Auctions
 •  Bids & Contracts
 •  Bridges
 •  Bridge Operations
 •  Construction
 •  Construction Permits
 •  Construction & Technology
 •  Courtesy Patrol
 •  Driver Information
 •  Freedom of Information Act
 •  Highway Advertising Signs
 •  Highway Maintenance
 •  Local Agency Programs
 •  Logo Signs & Tourist-Oriented Signs
 •  Mackinac Bridge
 •  MiRLAP
 •  Political Signs
 •  Potholes
 •  Rail Safety
 •  Rideshare
 •  Roads
 •  Safety Programs
 •  Traffic Signals
 •  Traffic Signs & Delineation
 •  Traffic & Safety
 •  Workzone Speed Limits

Michigan.gov Home | MDOT Home | Site Map | FAQ | State Web Sites
Privacy Policy | Link Policy | Accessibility Policy | Security Policy | Michigan News | Michigan.gov Survey

Copyright © 2001-2009 State of Michigan