Caltrans will honor 194 employees who have died on the job since 1921 at the 35th annual Workers Memorial. Hosted for the first time in West Sacramento, the ceremony pays tribute to the dedicated public servants who paid the ultimate sacrifice to keep others safe on the California state highway system as well as recognizing their families, friends and colleagues.
The event is also a solemn reminder to motorists about the importance of safe and attentive driving when traveling through highway work zones, as a moment of safety can prevent a moment of silence.
Tragically, the number of Caltrans workers who have lost their lives in service to the State increased by one since the 34th memorial a year ago. Alexander Rodish (Roe-dish) was killed on July 22, 2024 after being struck by a vehicle while working on Interstate 5 in San Clemente.
Highway construction and maintenance work is one of the most perilous occupations in the nation. In 2021, more than 9,500 work zone collisions occurred on California highways, resulting in an estimated 2,971 injuries and 73 fatalities.
Who:
- Walt Gray – ABC-10 Sacramento News Anchor (event emcee).
- Tony Tavares – Caltrans Director
- Lisa Rodish – twin sister of fallen worker Alexander Rodish
- Steve Lee – President, Professional Engineers of California Government
- Marnie Primmer – California Transportation Foundation (CTF) Executive Director
*Out of respect for the families, please coordinate all interview requests through Caltrans Media Manager Rick Brewer by calling (279) 234-3896.
Where: Thursday, April 17, at 11 a.m.
River Walk Park
651 2nd Street, West Sacramento, CA 95605
Visuals:
- Memorial display featuring 194 traffic cones, each draped with a black ribbon bearing the name of a fallen worker and configured in the shape of a diamond. The tribute is symbolic of a highway caution sign. Two black cones at the center of this formation signify all workers lost on the state highway system, including private contractors and CHP officers, and one for Rodish, the most recent Caltrans employee killed on the job.
- Caltrans Honor Guard performing the “Cone and Wreath”
- Highway safety equipment.
- Caltrans vehicles struck by errant drivers.
- Bagpipe procession.
Caltrans employees will provide their musical talent for the event, playing instruments and singing the National Anthem and Amazing Grace.
