TAMPA, Fla. — Selmon Extension construction crews are facing dangers on a regular basis on the job as a result of speeding drivers while working in the Gandy median.
The posted construction speed limit along the project corridor is 45 miles per hour, but drivers are often going a whole lot faster, according to Kym Graves with The Selmon Extension Project.
“Workers basically have to keep their heads on a swivel," Graves said. "Just know where they are and where the traffic is at all times. But as far as the drivers, I mean you can help the situation. Be alert. Don’t be on your phone.”
The fine for speeding in a construction zone is double the amount of a regular ticket.
Drivers are also using the barrier walls as a way to make U-Turns, something Graves said is putting lives at risk.
“Please do not use those as cut thrus," Graves said. "If you need to be somewhere at a certain time the best thing for you to do is leave early.”
According to the Federal Highway Administration, Florida ranks one of the top five states for highway construction accidents.
Work zone signs are posted for the crews’ safety as well as drivers.
