Pennsylvania State Police and Turnpike launch ‘Operation Orange Squeeze’ to enforce work zone safety

(WTAJ) — Pennsylvania State Police troopers will be trading in their cruisers for construction vehicles in April as part of ‘Operation Orange Squeeze,’ an initiative aimed at catching drivers who speed or drive distracted in Pennsylvania Turnpike work zones.

The enforcement effort, which coincides with National Distracted Driving Awareness Month, allows troopers to monitor work zones from construction vehicles to catch violations. Officials say the initiative is critical, as 176 crashes occurred in active Turnpike work zones last year, resulting in two deaths and 48 injuries.

The program is part of a broader effort to improve work zone safety, with Pennsylvania law imposing strict penalties for speeding or reckless driving in these areas. Drivers caught going 11 mph or more over the limit, or those involved in crashes in work zones, face automatic 15-day license suspensions.

Since resuming in 2023, ‘Operation Orange Squeeze’ has led to hundreds of citations and warnings, and officials hope the increased enforcement will encourage drivers to slow down and pay attention.

Motorists can check Turnpike traffic updates at www.511PA.com.