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As you settle in for a restful night’s sleep, there’s a team of dedicated construction workers on the highway—paving the way for safer, smoother travel by morning. Night construction is essential for major projects like the one taking place on southbound I-35 highway in Kansas City, whereas daytime traffic would cause increasingly dangerous conditions for both workers and drivers. But while you sleep, these workers face significant hazards under the cover of darkness, where every moment requires careful attention to safety while making sure each step is done according to the standards of KDOT.  

While our construction inspection team is fully committed to maintaining strict safety protocols, there’s a vital role that drivers and the general public can play in keeping everyone safe during these night operations. 

Construction Inspection Overview 

As part of our commitment to delivering ‘No Problem’ service, BHC role in the I-35 southbound project is to provide comprehensive construction inspection services. Our team of experienced inspectors is on-site every night, meticulously monitoring the progress to ensure all safety protocols, material specifications, and construction standards are met according to KDOT. By performing real-time inspections, we can identify potential issues before they become costly problems, ensuring the mill and overlay work is completed efficiently and to the highest standard. This rigorous inspection process guarantees that every layer of asphalt, every traffic shift, and every safety measure is executed with precision, resulting in a durable, long-lasting roadway that meets state and federal requirements, as well as the standards of drivers using the road. 

This project involves paving I-35 highway from the on-ramp from I-635 to just past 95^th Street. Patching of the concrete took place before the asphalt overlay to cover large cracks and potholes for a solid, smooth foundation for the asphalt. From start to finish, our inspection crew is responsible for working with the contractor, Superior Bowen, to inspect the asphalt and verify each step along the way is up to code.  

Safety Measures in Place 

To combat some of the dangers of night construction, like reduced visibility, fatigue, and the traveling public, a range of safety protocols are put in place to protect our workers. Every precaution is taken to ensure that everyone goes home safe in the morning, but safety doesn’t just happen—it’s planned, enforced, and practiced every night. 

High-powered, strategically placed work lights help illuminate the construction zone and make sure that workers, equipment, and vehicles are clearly visible. These lights are positioned not only to guide the workers but also to alert drivers from a distance that they are approaching an active construction zone. 

Our workers wear reflective clothing and gear, ensuring that they stand out in low-light conditions. Reflective vests, helmets, and ankle gaiters make workers more visible, but it’s still crucial that drivers pay close attention, especially when passing through these areas. 

Advanced signage is placed well ahead of the work zone to alert drivers of lane shifts, reduced speed limits, and upcoming road work. Cones, barrels, and barriers help guide traffic away from active work areas. Oftentimes there is work taking place that is less obvious to passersby or conditions that are not yet suitable for traffic, such as curing concrete patches or fresh asphalt pavement that must be compacted. These barriers are not a suggestion. Remain outside of the traffic controls and trust that the road is blocked for a reason for the safety of you and the workers. 

How You Can Help Keep Workers Safe 

You, as a driver, play a critical role in protecting road workers during night construction. Here are some simple yet powerful ways to ensure everyone stays safe. 

1. Slow Down – Speed limits are reduced in work zones for a reason. Slowing down not only gives you more time to react to changes in the roadway but also allows workers more time to avoid any potential hazards. Reducing your speed helps ensure that both you and the construction team can remain safe. 

2. Stay Alert – Eliminate distractions. Put your phone down, keep both hands on the wheel, and stay focused on the road. Work zones can change rapidly, with lane shifts, sudden stops, or workers and machinery moving unexpectedly. Staying alert could mean the difference between a smooth drive and a devastating accident. 

3. Follow Signage – Work zone signs are there to protect you and the workers. Obey the directions and warnings they provide. Whether it’s a new lane pattern, a flagger giving instructions, or a posted speed limit, these signs are your best guide for navigating safely through construction areas. 

4. Be Patient – Night construction can cause delays but remember that it’s for your benefit. Paving and repairs ensure the roads are safer and smoother for everyone. Exercising patience and caution in work zones is a small price to pay for better and safer roads tomorrow. 

Partnering for a Safer Tomorrow 

Night construction, like the asphalt mill and overlay work on I-35 highway, is vital for maintaining and improving our infrastructure, but it comes with significant risks. While our team is committed to following strict safety procedures, we also rely on drivers to help keep our workers safe. The next time you see those orange cones and flashing lights, remember the individuals working through the night to ensure your commute is safer and smoother by morning. 

BHC is committed to providing our clients with the highest quality of ‘No Problem’ service. Our Construction Services group is ready to take on your next project. Visit our Construction Services page to learn more about the services we offer, including construction inspection, or get in touch with one of our experts at https://ibhc.com/connect/. Let’s work together to bring quality infrastructure to the communities around us.