(WBRE/WYOU) — Work zones are popping up all across the commonwealth, and the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) and state police want drivers to know they are watching. 28/22 News explains how Operation Yellow Jacket is cracking down on unsafe driving.
If you think it's just a PennDOT work truck on the side of the road, think again. Behind the wheel might be a state trooper, and if you’re breaking work zone laws, they’ll be ready to call you out.
Construction season means narrower lanes, slower speeds, and a greater risk for workers on the road. That’s why Operation Yellow Jacket is back.
"The Pennsylvania State Police will continue working closely with PennDOT throughout the coming months. Together, we remain committed to making Pennsylvania roadways safer for everyone," Trooper Bob Urban, community services officer for Pennsylvania State Police, explained.
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"Although we still see work zone crashes occurring, we have seen the trend decrease thanks to the enforcement assistance of the PA State Police," Lonell Tomaine, acting assistant district executive maintenance, PennDOT Engineering District 4, said.
State troopers sit inside parked PennDOT vehicles, blending into the active work zone, and watching for dangerous driving behavior, such as speeding, tailgating, and distracted driving.
"When these infractions are identified, the trooper coordinates with other marked patrol units to conduct traffic stops," Trooper Urban explained.
In 2024 alone, Operation Yellow Jacket led to 319 traffic stops, 419 citations, and 86 warnings.
"These enforcement efforts highlight our commitment to protecting both motorists and highway workers alike," Trooper Urban said.
Remember, state law requires drivers to slow down, turn on headlights, and pay attention in work zones.
