IDOT says put a lid on litter

The Illinois Department of Transportation is once again asking the public to be on the alert for crews picking up litter across the state, encouraging everyone to help keep Illinois roads clean and protect the environment by putting trash where it belongs and remembering to “Put a Lid on Litter!”

“Just a little litter might seem harmless, but it can create a big, expensive problem,” said Illinois Transportation Acting Secretary Gia Biagi. “At IDOT, we’re determined to put a lid on litter, but we need your help. Hang onto your garbage until you can get to a trash can. Tie down loads and cargo that can get caught in the wind. Let’s work together and keep our state and our communities litter free.”

Last year, IDOT spent approximately $26.9 million statewide picking up litter and removing large debris. That’s the equivalent of buying 100 maintenance trucks that also plow snow in winter or purchasing all of the salt that IDOT spreads in an average winter, with money left to spare. It also could pay to resurface 22 miles of interstate highway.

Litter comes with hidden costs as well, including blocking drainage systems that prevent flooding, harming critical landscaping and putting the public’s safety at risk. ​