Missouri Teens Want Others to Know What’s at Stake in Work Zones

What’s happening: Teens from 10 Missouri high schools helped kick off a new safety initiative March 23 that encourages young drivers to slow down and stay alert in work zones. Students who complete a free, 45‑minute online course can enter to win a $500 scholarship and sports tickets. The initiative was launched through the Missouri Department of Transportation’s TRACTION Conference.

How it works: The online course is offered by Work Zone Safe, a nonprofit dedicated to helping new drivers understand that every cone and flashing light represents a worker who wants to return home safely. Supported by the AGC of Missouri and the ARTBA Foundation, the program pairs online learning with in‑person training and special events to reinforce safe‑driving habits around work zones.

What’s next: The program is expanding nationwide. Oklahoma, Kansas, North Carolina, Wisconsin, and Connecticut have already passed laws requiring driver’s permit applicants to take a Work Zone Safe class. To get more involved, please contact ARTBA’s Brad Sant.