Your Voice Matters: WSDOT Seeks Public Input on Honoring Lives Lost on Washington Roads

The highways of Washington State bear silent tributes to lives lost—heroes who served with courage, and innocent individuals whose journeys ended too soon. These aren't just signs; they are solemn reminders, etched into our landscape by the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) to honor sacrifice and tragedy.

Now, WSDOT is extending a crucial invitation to YOU: share your voice and help shape the future of these deeply meaningful memorial signs.

For decades, WSDOT has managed a program that places these poignant markers across our state's vast road network. Whether it’s a sign commemorating a fallen law enforcement officer, firefighter, or first responder who made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty, or a stark reminder of a life tragically cut short by impaired driving, these memorials serve vital purposes.

They offer solace to grieving families, inspire gratitude in communities, and powerfully reinforce the importance of safety on our roads.

Currently, WSDOT is undertaking a comprehensive review of its memorial signs program. This isn't just a routine check; it's a dedicated effort to ensure that the criteria for these signs are as "equitable, thoughtful, and consistent" as possible.

The department recognizes that the impact of these signs is profound and that the policies governing them must reflect the diverse needs and sentiments of Washingtonians.

This is where your input becomes invaluable. WSDOT has launched an online survey, inviting residents to provide feedback on the existing policies and offer suggestions for potential updates.

The survey delves into the specific criteria for signs honoring fallen public safety personnel, as well as those dedicated to victims of impaired driving incidents. Your perspectives on what makes a memorial meaningful, how criteria should be applied, and how these signs best serve our communities are critical to this process.

Don't miss this opportunity to contribute to a program that touches so many lives.

The online survey is accessible now and will remain open for submissions until April 19, 2024. By participating, you’re not just filling out a questionnaire; you’re helping to define how Washington State remembers its heroes and educates its drivers, ensuring that these roadside tributes continue to resonate with respect and purpose for generations to come.

Visit the WSDOT website today and make your voice heard.