HOLT - A dramatic jump in the number of fatalities associated with work zone crashes in Michigan prompted Transportation Director Gloria Jeff to make a symbolic change in her office location on May 11.

Jeff had a desk and laptop moved to a rest stop on a ramp to northbound U.S. 127 and held a news conference to make the point that construction workers' "offices" are often only a few feet from moving traffic - and that speeding drivers increases the odds for tragedy.

"We'll do out part and continue to provide well-signed and marked work zones, in which the travel path is clear," Jeff said. "We ask motorists to do their part - slow down, drive the posted speed, and be alert and attentive as they proceed through the work zone."

According to the MDOT, in 2003 there were 5,800 work zone crashes, causing 1,636 injuries and 11 fatalities. In 2004, there were 6,323 crashes, 1,751 injuries and 22 fatalities.

"The hard-working men and women of Michigan's construction unions are entitled to a safe workplace and the roadways are their workplace," said John Hamilton, business manager of Operating Engineers Local 324. "By slowing down when driving in construction zones, motorists can help keep workers safe, while protecting themselves."

Indeed, this media campaign is aimed at motorist safety as much as worker safety. Michigan State Police Lt. Col. Peter Munoz said that all 22 work-zone fatalities last year were motorists. Most accidents, he said, were caused by drivers slowing or stopping suddenly while approaching a work zone. He said State Police made 9,000 work zone traffic stops last year and handed out 6,000 citations.

The 2005 "Give 'em a Brake" campaign will introduce new radio ads that warns young drivers about increased fines and penalties for speeding in work zones. In addition to supporting those efforts, MDOT will invest approximately $500,000 in work-zone enforcement again this year, bringing together Michigan State police, county sheriffs and local police to increase police presence in work zones.

Among the organizations contributing funding for the work zone safety effort: the Michigan Building Trades Council, Michigan Laborers, Operating Engineers Local 324 and the Michigan Infrastructure and Transportation Association.

"Our goal is not to write tickets, we want to make work zones safer," Munoz said. "Enforcement is not enough. All of us play a role in work zone safety by slowing down."

MDOT Director Gloria Jeff sits at a desk at a rest stop exit along M-127 while Michigan State Police Lt. Col. Peter Munoz speaks during the press conference.