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Friday, Apr. 25, 2025

Is it anyone’s job to clean up trash along Colorado highways?

Por Jaijongkit, The Colorado Sun
yes

While the public is urged to do their part by avoiding littering and keeping vehicle loads secure, the Colorado Department of Transportation is primarily responsible for clearing litter and debris from state highways. 

Litter means any item, liquid or solid of any size that may harm the environment or impact road safety. During fiscal year 2022-2023, CDOT spent $7 million to discard almost 52,000 cubic yards of litter collected from highways. Frequency of pickups depends on the route and varies from twice a month to once a year. 

Efforts to keep roads clear include a partnership with the Department of Corrections in which prisoners help remove litter from highways. An annual statewide “Litter Sweep” is typically organized in June. Volunteers can participate in the Adopt-a-Highway Program to help clear debris four or more times a year. 

CDOT’s jurisdiction covers 23,000 miles of state highways and interstates. 

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