Work zone speed limit

The Vermont Agency of Transportation (VTrans) implements speed limit reductions on many state highway construction projects throughout the state. The decision to reduce the speed limit is typically made by the project manager and/or resident engineer. Legal temporary speed limit certificates are prepared for each project identified. Speed limit reductions are limited to 10 mph below the regular posted limit. Speed limits are rarely reduced for maintenance operations.
Speed reductions may be applied on freeways as well as two-lane rural roadways.
Ground-mounted or portable signs are used to communicate changes to motorists. Speed zones also post a regulatory sign stating “Fines doubled for speeding in a work zone.”
If lanes are narrowed or if pavement is going to be disturbed or cold-planed, temporary speed limits continue 24/7. For projects such as guardrail installations, the temporary speed limit is in effect only during the work activity. Temporary speed limit signs are covered or laid flat when there is no need for the speed limit reduction.
Vermont does not use flashing beacons on speed limit reduction signs. They have experimented with a supplemental plaque attached above the speed limit sign, stating “WORK ZONE” on fluorescent orange sheeting, for added conspicuity of the temporary speed limit.