As summer approaches, you are likely to encounter more and more work zones on your daily drive.

Between 2004 and 2008, 79 people were killed and 4,744 injured in Missouri roadway work zones. Just last year, 12 people were killed, that number was up from 5 killed in 2007. Approximately 600 people were injured in work zones last year.

This week, the Missouri Department Of Transportation will recognize work zone awareness week to draw attention to work zone safety. This will be the third year MODOT has implemented the program called "Operation Orange."

During the program, landmarks throughout Missouri volunteers to highlight their buildings or facilities with orange lighting to underscore the importance of work zone safety.

In St. Joseph, East Hills Library has volunteered again this year to light the front of their building orange and will design an exhibit for their lobby. Troop H of the Missouri State Highway Patrol will light their driveway entrances with orange cones and MODOT's sign in front of their district office on the North Belt highway will also change colors to highlight the issue.

For more information on Operation Orange or any other MODOT programs contact them at 816-387-2350.