‘Tin Gods’ Work To Preserve Crews’ Safety

I am offended by Jean Bell’s characterization of construction workers as “tin gods” and her assumption that this worker goes home at night and beats his wife (Letters, North Side Voice, May 18).

My husband has been in construction for 21 years, and I can assure you he is no “tin god,” nor does he come home at night and beat me.

I have driven through the construction zones in question. I found them to be well marked, and traffic should flow smoothly if drivers would pay attention and not try to make turns across traffic or stop in the road while contemplating the shortest route to their destination.

My husband’s biggest headache is when his crew is forced to work in the street. His concern for their safety overrides everything else due to the failure of some drivers to pay attention to the marked zone and their refusal to slow down.

How many people do you know who can do this specialized form of work with thousands of cars speeding by? My father-in-law, who apparently is another of these “tin gods,” was hit by a car because the driver failed to yield in a construction zone.

Everyone in Spokane should be aware that when construction zones are in place, the speed limit should be 25-35 mph or as designated, and when that “tin god” holds up a sign that says “slow,” that is exactly what it means: slow.

The citizens of Spokane should be grateful to the men and women who build our roads, stores, schools and houses, because without their specialized skills and hard work, we would be living in tents without running water, electricity, or sanitation facilities.

The next time Ms. Bell has business in Spokane, tell her to leave 30 minutes early or tell her to stay home. That way the “tin gods” won’t upset her.

xxxx