Lake County Adopt-a-Highway program seeks volunteers

Did you make a New Year’s Resolution to volunteer this year, or maybe resolve to live a little greener? If not, it’s not too late.

Enroll now in the Adopt-A-Highway program to contribute toward a cleaner, greener environment in Lake County. The division of transportation is accepting applications through Jan. 27.

Since 1993, hardworking volunteers from various business, civic, not-for-profit, social and youth groups have dedicated their free time twice a year to remove litter from both sides of their adopted county highway.

The program promotes teamwork, civic responsibility, helping the environment, and provides a valuable public service. Groups are recognized for their work with commemorative signs bearing their name that are placed on the roadway.

“We truly appreciate the volunteer efforts of citizens and organizations to help keep our roadways clean. Their efforts make a real difference. Thanks to their dedicated work, DOT maintenance crews can focus more time on road maintenance and other highway projects,” said Marty Buehler, director of transportation/county engineer.

The division of transportation provides participants with high-visibility safety vests, trash bags and safety information before dispatching the volunteers to remove litter from Lake County bike paths and highways.

This program helps improve the appearance of the county’s highway system, with volunteers removing more than 230,000 pounds of litter last year alone.

Current participants include groups such as: Center for Global Initiatives, Canal Raiders Motorcycle Club, Liberty Waste & Recycling and Greater Round Lake Fire Protection District.

Submit completed applications to the Lake County Division of Transportation, 600 W. Winchester Road, Libertyville, IL 60048; email doptahwy@lakecountyil.gov; or call (847) 377-7472.