Keeping Alabama’s roads clean is costing more each year — and its money that could otherwise go toward improving safety and infrastructure.
On average, the Alabama Department of Transportation is spending an additional $200,000 to $300,000 annually on litter pickup statewide. In fiscal year 2024, the total cost reached $9.4 million. The latest figures show that number climbing again in fiscal year 2025.
- Fiscal year 2025 total: $9,671,095.20
Spending:
Here’s how litter cleanup costs break down across ALDOT regions for fiscal year 2025:
- North Region: $1,497,100.26
- East Central Region: $3,482,967.32
- West Central Region: $1,499,627.36
- Southeast Region: $1,803,386.12
- Southwest Region: $1,388,014.14
While these numbers reflect ongoing cleanup efforts, they also highlight a growing issue.
Littering isn’t just unsightly — it is illegal and creates avoidable costs for taxpayers. Every dollar spent picking up trash is a dollar not spent on paving roads, improving intersections or enhancing safety.
ALDOT’s core mission is to maintain and improve the state’s transportation system. However, increasing litter means crews are spending valuable time removing debris from roadways. In some cases, contractors are also hired to assist with cleanup along interstates and state routes.
Drainage and flooding
Litter can also create drainage problems. Even small amounts of trash can collect around storm drains along busy interstates and other roadways. When drains become blocked, water may not drain properly during heavy rain events, which can contribute to standing water and localized flooding near roadways.
A shared responsibility
Keeping Alabama’s roads clean is not just a government effort — it requires public participation.
Simple actions can make a meaningful difference:
- Never throw trash from your vehicle
- Use trash cans at your destination
- Keep a small trash bag in your car
- Secure items when hauling to prevent debris from falling onto the roadway
- Volunteer with programs like Adopt-A-Mile or Keep Alabama Beautiful
Even small pieces of litter can create hazards for drivers, especially at highway speeds. Reducing roadside debris helps improve safety for motorists and roadway workers.
The bottom line
Litter cleanup is an ongoing need, but it is also preventable.
By taking a few extra steps, Alabamians can help reduce costs, improve safety and ensure more transportation dollars go where they are intended — making roads and bridges better for everyone.
