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October 22. 2014 12:01AM Since You Asked: Speed zone keeps workers, inspectors and drivers safe A reader questions the purpose of the reduced speed rule at the I-5 Phoenix interchange work area. What is accomplished by the 50-mph speed zone on Interstate 5 in the Phoenix work area? Does the 15 mph reduction make it safer for the workers? Or is the reduction to make it safer for the drivers? By the way, lots of money could be made by ticketing speeders in this area. While doing 50 mph, I have often been passed by semis as well as many other drivers. — Jerry, Ashland The speed reduction at the Fern Valley interchange by Phoenix is to help keep workers, inspectors and drivers safe, said Gary Leaming, spokesman for the Oregon Department of Transportation. "Studies show that most people who are injured in work zones are the public," he noted. "Our goal is to have everyone make it home safe at the end of the day." Leaming said conditions are constantly changing around road and freeway work sites. At the Phoenix interchange, there is a temporary on and off ramp for southbound traffic, and work is also going on in the median for a new overpass bridge support. Work also continues on the side of I-5. Next month, the contractor's schedule calls for setting beams across I-5 over several nights. "When you see orange, that's your clue to slow down and pay attention," said Leaming, adding that many distracted drivers risk their own lives and the lives of others by speeding, texting, talking on their cellphones and reading. Law enforcement personnel from Oregon State Police, Jackson County Sheriff's Office and Phoenix Police Department have all ticketed drivers speeding through the work zone. Fines are doubled in work zones, Leaming said. "There is lots of enforcement out there, and there will continue to be," he said. Send questions to “Since You Asked,” Mail Tribune Newsroom, P.O. Box 1108, Medford, OR 97501; by fax to 541-776-4376; or by email to [email protected]. We’re sorry, but the volume of questions received prevents us from answering all of them. http://www.mailtribune.com/article/20141022/NEWS/141029934 © 2015 Copyright © 1995-2011 Crain Communications Inc. All Rights Reserved. Terms of Use Privacy Statement -->