The initiative is a joint effort between PennDOT and PSP aimed at improving safety for both highway workers and motorists traveling through active construction zones. Operation Yellow Jacket details are conducted during both daytime and nighttime hours, including around-the-clock construction projects.
During the operation, State Police monitor traffic from within PennDOT vehicles located inside active work zones. Troopers then identify violations and coordinate enforcement efforts to stop unsafe driving behaviors.
“We appreciate the Pennsylvania State Police partnering with the PennDOT District 5 Schuylkill County office for the second year to keep work zones safe for both the traveling public and our highway workers,” said PennDOT Schuylkill County Maintenance Manager Kevin Kull. “Each year it becomes more dangerous to perform road maintenance work safely, and with the support of Pennsylvania State Police we can reduce unsafe driving behaviors. I cannot stress enough the importance of respecting work zones and remaining patient, so everyone gets home safely.”
A three-day Operation Yellow Jacket deployment held in June along Interstate 81 work zones in Schuylkill County resulted in:
- 40 citations and warnings for speeding and other traffic violations
- 1 drug-related arrest
- Fastest speed recorded entering a work zone: 95 mph
- Fastest speed recorded inside a work zone: 70 mph
Officials continue to remind drivers to slow down, remain alert, avoid distractions, and use caution when traveling through work zones.
Motorists can check current road conditions by visiting 511PA.com. The free service is available 24 hours a day and provides traffic delays, weather forecasts, traffic speeds, and access to more than 1,000 traffic cameras. Information is also available through the 511PA mobile app, by calling 5-1-1, or by following local alerts on X.