In the coming weeks and months, drivers might notice a change to the flashing warning lights on PennDOT trucks in the area.
PennDOT and the Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission are adding green lights to their fleet due to recent legislation signed by Gov. Josh Shapiro, a Democrat.
The law, H.B. 2182, which was enacted in July, introduces the use of green flashing or revolving lights on state-authorized vehicles.
The lights are intended to boost visibility, especially in poor weather conditions, including as fog and snow. The new lights will complement the existing amber and yellow lights use for safety, according to PennDOT officials.
State Rep. Jim Marshall, a Republican from Beaver County, introduced the bill.
Last week, demonstrations of newly equipped vehicles were held to show off the green lights integrated with the existing yellow and amber lights.
PennDOT Secretary Michael Carroll said that the addition of green lights is a move to decrease the likelihood of crashes involving construction and maintenance crews.
“This may seem like a small change, but this new light combination will increase safety by making construction and maintenance vehicles more visible,” Carroll said.
In addition to PennDOT, the Pennsylvania Turnpike, municipalities, and contractors working for the state are also adding the green lights.
The installation of green lights is underway as PennDOT prepares for the winter season, which often sees an increase in crashes involving snow clearing operations and traffic.
With more than $186 million budgeted for this winter’s operations, the state’s teams are ready for the winter, Carroll said.
PennDOT is gearing up with approximately 728,000 tons of salt stocked statewide and expects ongoing deliveries throughout the season. The department employs about 4,700 on-the-road workers to manage state-owned roads and highways.
State officials urged the public to get ready for winter by checking their vehicles and being aware of winter driving conditions. PennDOT has created a website for resources.
PennDOT is also seeking residents to fill jobs in its full-time or temporary workforce, Carroll said.
Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission officials also said they are preparing for the winter season by stocking up on salt and equipment.
