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Second annual Spring Clean Day combats litter

Apr 24

The Alabama Department of Transportation is pleased to announce its second annual Spring Clean Day was a success.

The event, which took place April 23, was part of ALDOT’s ongoing efforts to promote cleaner and safer roadways. All eight districts within the West Central Region spent the day picking up litter on various routes.

ALDOT spent nearly $9 million on litter cleanup throughout the state in fiscal year 2023, an increase from $7 million in fiscal year 2022. This money could have been used to maintain roads and bridges.

“We can all do our part by properly disposing of our trash,” said Lyndi Blackburn, West Central Assistant Region Engineer. “Each tossed item not only harms our environment, but also poses hazards to travelers and wildlife alike. Let’s work together to preserve our environment and keep our roadways safe for future generations.”

ALDOT encourages all Alabamians to participate in this important initiative by organizing litter cleanup activities in their local communities. Whether it’s picking up a park or simply disposing of litter, everyone can play a part.

According to the U.S. National Park Service, a plastic bottle can take up to 450 years to decompose.

There are many ways for residents to keep Alabama beautiful:

•           Dispose of trash properly.

•           Never throw anything out of the vehicle window.

•           Carry a small trash bag in the vehicle.

•           Properly secure loads when hauling loose items.

ALDOT partners with Keep Alabama Beautiful, People Against a Littered State (PALS) and the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency to help keep Alabama litter-free.

ALDOT’s West Central Region includes Bibb, Chilton, Fayette, Greene, Hale, Lamar, Marion, Perry, Pickens, Sumter, Tuscaloosa, Walker and Winston counties.