December 20, 2016 11:05 AM UTC

Enjoying the Holidays in Colorado? Thank a State Employee

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• by: Colorado WINS

(Promoted by Colorado Pols)

As thousands of Coloradans hit the road and celebrate the holidays and New Year’s, thousands of Colorado’s public employees will be on the job over the holiday week.

“As our union members proudly put it, We Never Close,” said Colorado WINS Executive Director Tim Markham. “State workers will be on the job, working Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and New Year’s, as they are on other holidays, keeping the roads clear, vulnerable Coloradans fed and cared for, and our state prisons safe. For corrections officers, transportation employees, caregivers at our veterans’ homes, and employees who care for the developmentally disabled at regional centers, it’s a 24-7 dedication to public service.”

Sean Lichota is a CDOT employee who will be part of the agency’s response team working on the holidays to make sure roads are clear of any hazardous debris or snow – including if a storm hits right at Christmas.

“Any time away from your family, especially on the holidays, is always rough,” Lichota said. “But it’s the nature of the job that we chose and what we do to serve the citizens of Colorado. What I do on the holidays for the public is very fulfilling. Making sure everybody gets through the roads to their homes and families during the holidays safely is one of our main goals. You don’t want to see anyone have any issues trying to get back and forth during the holidays. Not only will we be out there making sure all the roads are clear and safe from ice and snow, but if we see a stranded motorist and we have the opportunity, we will pull over and help them get on their way faster and safer.”

Colorado’s 30,000 state employees live and work in all of the state’s 64 counties.