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COLUMBUS -- The Ohio Department of Transportation is testing a new program to keep construction work zones safer.

It’s called the Variable Speed Limit program and is meant to help protect workers and travelers while reducing congestion and crashes. ODOT officials say the program will allow traffic to travel at normal speeds elsewhere in those areas.

Here’s how it works: In certain areas of construction zones, signs with flashing beacons will light up as an indicator to slow down. The beacons will then turn off when workers are away from their work zones.

The program which is a first for Ohio will be tested during bridge and road projects in Lucas, Warren and Franklin counties. It’s expected to go statewide next year.

(The Associated Press contributed to this report.)