College and university campuses are bustling environments filled with students, faculty and visitors on the move. Travel safety on campus is always a top concern for school administrators, and with the number of end-of-semester activities, athletic events and graduations taking place this time of year, it is especially important for pedestrians, bicyclists and drivers to do their part to help reduce risks.

In early March, President Trump announced he would invoke a legal provision that allows him to impose a 25 percent tariff on steel imports and a 10 percent tariff on imported aluminum. Since then, a series of changing policy decisions has led to uncertainty about if and when the proposed tariffs will be implemented, and how they might impact the U.S. and countries around the world.

At Traffic Safety Direct, we are monitoring this situation closely as it has the potential to impact a variety of our core product lines. Corrosion-resistant steel is used for essentials like our wide selection of u-channel, round and square sign posts.

Traffic signs are a vital element of the massive transportation network that crisscrosses the country. Whether posted on highways or back roads, in suburban neighborhoods or city streets, these signs communicate rules, warnings, directions and other information that is essential for drivers and pedestrians.

Ensuring that these signs are well maintained is a major safety concern, and the U.S. Department of Transportation Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) issues detailed guidelines for the local maintenance of signs and sign supports. In the wake of damage caused by winter weather and snowplowing operations, maintenance crews will be making it a priority to repair and replace signs now that spring has arrived.

Spring is the season for repair and recovery when it comes to America’s roadways. Warmer temperatures and longer days are a welcome relief, but the harsh winter weather often takes a heavy toll on paved roads and parking lots.

Cracks and potholes caused by the freeze/thaw cycle seem to appear over night. Plowing and salting can worsen the condition of already deteriorated roads, and street flooding from melting snow and spring rainstorms can further stress roads.

Without regular maintenance to keep pavement, shoulders and drainage facilities in good condition, roadways can rapidly fall into disrepair.

Construction zones have become a familiar sight on highways and in cities and towns across the country. These work zones are often hazardous for motorists and pedestrians trying to navigate them and for the workers who build, repair, and maintain our streets, bridges, and buildings. When construction or work sites have potentially dangerous conditions, it is important to alert motorists and pedestrians who are traveling nearby. Traffic signs are a vital tool for preventing accidents and injury, as well as ensuring the safety of the crews working in these hazardous, fast-paced environments.