(COLORADO SPRINGS) — It’s that time of year–when more and more construction projects are getting started. Whether you’re excited for better roads, or annoyed with the traffic, construction zones are almost unavoidable for drivers right now.

Colorado Springs officials are asking people to “mind the cones” as the projects take place.

“What we need is for people to understand patience. Sometimes, we understand that there’s a rush to get to where you need to be, but these are short term delays. It doesn’t take that long to get through most of our cone zones,” said Bryan Wilson, the Operations Manager for Public Works.

The Colorado Springs Police Department (CSPD) said distracted driving is prevalent in the community. In an effort to reduce crashes and fatalities, the department said it’s pulling over a lot of drivers coming out of construction zones.

“If you are in a construction zone that is clearly marked, then the fines will be doubled,” said Shawn Peterson, with the CSPD Traffic Enforcement Unit. “Our city attorney is more than happy to prosecute. Slow it down and pay attention to the road and all of the signage that’s out there. Otherwise, we will be more than happy to write them tickets, and they will be losing a lot of money.”

Colorado Springs Utilities said it experienced 12 traffic incidents in 2024, while its crews were out trying to make improvements to our infrastructure.

“We actually had an individual run through our cone zone, came upon the crew that was working, and almost hit a piece of equipment,” said Michael Myers, the Colorado Springs Utilities Manager of Safety and Health. “They were actually looking down at their phone trying to send a text message to their mom, and so it was a good learning opportunity and a narrow escape… We don’t like to be lucky. We like to ensure that everybody’s safe.”