FHWA invites submissions for work zone safety memorial
The Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) is accepting proposals for a new National Fallen Highway Workers Memorial to honor workers who have lost their lives in work zones and serve as a lasting reminder of the nation’s commitment to improving work zone safety.
The memorial comes amid continued concerns about work zone crashes and fatalities. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reported 4,481 deaths in work zones between 2020 and 2024, and the Bureau of Labor Statistics recorded 536 highway worker fatalities during the same span.
“By creating a space for reflection and remembrance, the memorial will serve as an educational tool—helping visitors and motorists understand the importance of work zone safety and the consequences of unsafe driving,” the announcement reads.
FHWA is offering a $5,000 prize. Additional details and requirements are included in the June 22 Federal Register notice. Submissions must be received by October 20, 2026.
Push for work zone safety protections continues
NAPA is continuing its advocacy efforts to strengthen federal policies that improve work zone safety and protect both roadway workers and the motoring public.
One of the most significant opportunities to advance that goal is the BUILD America 250 Act, the bipartisan surface transportation reauthorization bill approved by the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee in May. The legislation includes several provisions to improve work zone safety, including a new interagency working group and expanded eligibility for federal safety and driver education funding.
“Nothing is more important than ensuring highway workers return home safely at the end of each day ” said Mitch Baldwin, NAPA Director of Government Affairs. “The BUILD America 250 Act includes some of the most meaningful federal work zone safety advancements in years, and we are encouraged by the bipartisan support these provisions have received.”
The Work Zone Safety Coalition, led by NAPA, strongly endorsed the legislation upon its introduction and continues to advocate for its enactment before the current surface transportation authorization expires Sept. 30.
