Operation Hard Hat Detail Completed in Broome County

On July 30, 2025, Troopers from the Troop “C” Traffic Incident Management Unit (TIM) partnered with the Department of Transportation (DOT) for an Operation Hard Hat enforcement detail in the town of Vestal.

Construction crews were out on I-86/State Route 17 east completing bridge work.  Workers are completing repairs in a lane that is shut down but dangerously close to a lane with vehicles passing by and the lane of travel narrows right on the bridge.  The work zone has clearly marked signage indicating that the speed limit is 55 miles per hour - one person was stopped for traveling at 82 mph in the zone.    

Operation Hard Hat targets reckless and distracted drivers in work zone and cracks down on work zone violations while highlighting the importance of safe driving when approaching construction, maintenance and emergency operation along state highways. During the detail, Troopers are embedded in an active construction zone and dressed as a construction worker. Troopers watch for reckless behavior like speeding or people on an electronic device.

54 total citations were issued:

• 20 - cellphones (operating an electronic device)
• 16 - speeding
• 11 – no seatbelt
• 2 – improper child restraints
• 1 – following too closely
• 4 – other

Motorists are urged to drive responsibly in work zones. Oftentimes the speed limit is reduced in work zones.  Pay attention to signage, be alert, patient and focus on just driving.  Please be mindful of the crews working along the roadways, they deserve to go home to their families at the end of the day!