Widow Advocates for Safer Roads in Memory of Kane County Worker
The widow of a Kane County Division of Transportation (KDOT) worker wants motorists to think about her husband when driving in construction zones.
On May 19, 2016, 44-year-old Steven Chidester was repairing potholes along Harter Road in Blackberry Township when a man driving a truck struck and killed him.
Each year, around the anniversary of his death, Lorraine Chidester honors his memory with a message about road safety. She has designed a flyer featuring his photo that encourages motorists to be vigilant, reduce speed, and give space to roadside workers. The caption states, "Slow Down, Move Over for All Roadside Workers." Chidester also appeared before a recent Kane County Transportation Committee meeting.
"I am here today to honor my husband's memory and ask that you promote "Move Over for All Road Construction Workers" in your districts, in your homes, with your kids, your families, with your friends in hopes that this tragic accident never happens again," Chidester said.
After his death, Kane County Department of Transportation employees honored the memory of the colleague by dedicating 3.8 miles in each direction on Harter Road from Scott to Seavey Roads through the County's Adopt a Highway program.
