The Nebraska State Patrol is emphasizing the importance of following posted speed limits following a special enforcement effort in a high-traffic construction zone near Lincoln.

Wednesday morning, troopers performed a high-visibility enforcement effort focused on speeding in the Interstate 80 construction zone just west of Lincoln. The area includes lane shifts that move the westbound lanes adjacent to the eastbound lanes.

During a three-hour period Wednesday morning, troopers stopped 36 drivers for speeding in that construction zone. The speed limit in this construction zone is 55 miles per hour. The highest speed observed in the construction zone on Wednesday morning was 80 miles per hour. Troopers will closely monitor traffic in this area for the duration of the project.

“Road construction crews rely on the motoring public to keep them safe,” said Colonel Bryan Waugh, Superintendent of the Nebraska State Patrol. “Whether it’s in this work zone or any other across Nebraska, follow the posted speed limit, pay attention to the road, and help ensure that these crews can perform their jobs safely.”

There are numerous active work zones across the state. Before hitting the road this summer, check Nebraska 511 for a map of ongoing projects and anticipate reduced speeds in those areas.

"The posted speed limit in these complex construction zones are not just random numbers. The work zone on the Interstate west of Lincoln, as with many other others across the state, requires these lower speeds to keep workers and drivers safe," said Director of the Nebraska Department of Transportation Vicki Kramer. "And with summer travel in full swing, we need those behind the wheel to do their part and slow down. We appreciate the strong partnership with the Nebraska State Patrol and the work troopers do to help keep our roadways safe."

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