Picking up litter: it’s certainly not glamorous, but it’s a simple task that has the power to transform our roadways, help protect the environment and bring volunteers together.
The City of Springfield’s Adopt-A-Street Program recognizes the commitment of volunteers to keep Springfield rights-of-way clean. Established in 1989, Adopt-A-Street has been successful in providing opportunities for community service, educating the public about the impact of littering, reducing roadway and water pollution and improving the quality of life in Springfield.
Facilitated by the City of Springfield Department of Public Works, Adopt-A-Street has grown to include 247 organizations volunteering to keep more than 138 miles of roadway free of litter and debris. More than 2,000 bags of litter are collected annually as a result of the program.
“Adopt-A-Street volunteers provide a vital service to the Springfield community,” says Public Works Senior Project Designer and Adopt-A-Street Program Coordinator Tina Stob. “But volunteers benefit directly by enjoying cleaner local streets and getting to know their neighbors and coworkers during cleanups.”
Individuals, community groups, neighborhood organizations, business owners, schools, churches and service clubs are invited to participate. Adopt-A-Street requires a relatively small, flexible time commitment and the activity is simple and easy for people of many ages and abilities to take part.
“I think Adopt-A-Street is a great program for every neighborhood association to participate in,” says Woodland Heights Neighborhood and Moon City Creative District volunteer Steve Miller. “It is really a low-maintenance, high pay-off activity. It’s a great way to build community together and to get to know those who live in and around the neighborhood.”
In return for an organization’s service, the program offers a unique recognition opportunity and point-of-pride. Volunteers who adopt a minimum of 0.5 miles of arterial or collector streets and conduct litter pick up at least three times per year receive recognition on two Adopt-A-Street signs posted on each end of the adopted street segment. These signs remain installed as long as the organization participates in the program. Volunteers are also recognized for their service on the Adopt-A-Street page on the City’s website.
Organizations are required to participate for one year and adoption is renewable annually, given that program requirements are met. The City provides bags to collect trash and debris and will pick up filled bags. Volunteers are encouraged to collect recyclable materials and redeem them at the City’s nearest recycling center.
“Picking up trash seems kind of insignificant, but it feels good and the outcome is undeniable,” Miller adds. “It all comes down to exhibiting a sense of pride and a sense of ownership in your community. Wherever we can help out we want to make a difference.”
How to Adopt-A-Street
To volunteer to adopt a street, complete a program application form found at springfieldmo.gov/traffic. The application can be submitted via email to adoptastreet@springfieldmo.gov or mail to:
Adopt-A-Street Program
Traffic Engineering Division
P.O. Box 8368
Springfield, MO 65801
Applicants can choose from a list of locations open for adoption, or request a specific roadway segment be considered. The program focuses primarily on arterial and collector streets that see more traffic.
Once Public Works approves your application, you will be notified with further instructions on how to begin the program.
Please notify Public Works each time you complete a cleanup to report the date of your cleanup and the number of filled bags that need to be picked up.
Contact Adopt-A-Street
For more information, visit springfieldmo.gov/traffic
Email: adoptastreet@springfieldmo.gov
Call: 417-864-1984