From the Director: Help ADOT Keep it Grand on National CleanUp Day, Sept. 16

With National CleanUp Day approaching on Sept. 16, I want to express my thanks to our volunteers who consistently pick up trash along our state highways. 

We hope that existing volunteers and those wanting to participate in a one-day cleanup will register to participate on this day set aside for individuals and organizations to work together in reducing litter in their communities.

Last year, volunteers cleaned up 1,672 miles of Arizona highways statewide and 5,902 individual volunteers were responsible for collecting 13,828 bags of trash equivalent to 85 tons. 

If we calculate the number of volunteer labor hours in 2022, it translates to $600,000 in savings. Taxpayers have certainly benefited from our Adopt A Highway program. 

I encourage everyone to do their part in keeping Arizona roads litter-free. Please think twice before you decide to throw cigarette butts or any type of trash out of a car window.

Remove trash from truck beds before traveling or secure trash to prevent it from blowing away. Besides making our roads look dirty, these items can clog our drainage systems and create problems during rain storms.

Thanks to all of the dedicated individuals who participate in Adopt a Highway volunteer programs throughout Arizona and perform such a valuable service for everyone in this state. Beyond the obvious benefits, keeping roadsides attractive creates a positive impression when visitors travel our highways. I appreciate the work you do in fulfilling our motto:  Arizona, Keep It Grand!

ADOT has many highway segments available for adoption. Visit azdot.gov/AdoptaHighway to learn more about our program and how to become a volunteer.