by: Boise Doaglo
Everywhere you look... it's a construction zone!
With the blossoming population in many urban areas, it is almost a given that when you venture around town to commute or to perform your errands, you will come across at least one type of construction project or another. It can be very frustrating to have to wait in traffic because a lane or two of traffic may be blocked in order to widen the roads or make repairs or other improvements. It is hard to think about the fact that the setbacks now will lead to more efficient travel and lifestyles in the future. Construction not only means growth, it also means jobs and an improved economy. If an area is growing that is a good sign that the economy it that area is growing as well.
Road construction can be unnerving when trying to get around town. Areas that are already congested with high amounts of cars seem doubly so while road construction is under way. The one thing to remember when dealing with road construction is to keep a level head and stay calm while dealing with increased traffic. It is very easy to get aggravated behind the wheel, but that will not serve anyone any good purpose, especially yourself. In these times of everyone being in a hurry, slowing down in areas of road construction are not only a courtesy, but a must. Fines are very hefty for speeding through a construction zone, so taking your time to get through a construction area with caution is not only safe for you and the road workers, but, as equally important, it is the law.
With increased population, comes an increase in housing construction. Areas that once were orange groves or tree farms are now being cleared to make way for houses and apartments. Construction of housing is loud and chaotic, with many trucks going in and out of construction sites. It is a good idea to use caution when traveling in any housing construction area.
When commercial construction of shopping centers, sports arenas or office buildings is involved, you will see even bigger trucks and equipment, including cranes, bulldozers and other large vehicles. Use extra caution to avoid the equipment and workers who are working on these sites. They are just trying to do their jobs and they want to get them done safely and quickly as well.
We can't stop growth or construction. As long as people continue to have families, they will need places for those families to live, shop, work, and go to school. In the end construction benefits all of us. Not only does it help the economy, but it also makes life easier and more pleasant. So the next time that you see a construction site, try to think about the positives and keep yourself and others safe.