In addition to making roadways look better, the project has additional goals.
Litter, including plastic bottles, fast food containers and cigarette butts, can wind up in highway drainage systems and clog the system or cause slow drainage. This creates dangerous conditions, such as ponding of water during storms. Litter that makes it past drainage systems can enter streams, rivers and the Chesapeake Bay and poses a threat to wildlife habitats.
The State Highway Administration launched Operation Clean Sweep Maryland in February 2023 to perform an all-hands-on deck litter and debris removal effort across Maryland. In Fiscal Year 2023, SHA collected nearly 9,000 truckloads of litter and debris from Maryland highways. Since July 1 (the beginning of Fiscal Year 2024), crews have collected an additional 1,000 truckloads.
Litter and mowing crews are working directly adjacent to traffic. As SHA continues with its litter and mowing efforts, motorists should pay close attention and reduce speeds and distractions when traveling near work crews.
Residents are encouraged to report issues of litter and high grass on State roads by clicking here or calling 410-545-0300.
