For More Information Contact:
Colleen Pillus
845-486-2000
E-mail: cpillus@dutchessny.gov
As part of this Saturday’s global Earth Day celebration, Dutchess County Executive Marc Molinaro has announced the Dutchess County Department of Public Works (DPW) Highway Division will dedicate several days to highway cleanup efforts as part of ongoing efforts to maintain the county roadway system. Starting Thursday, April 19th, and continuing April 20th, 23rd and 24th, DPW Highway crews will focus on litter cleanup on some of the County’s most highly trafficked roadways.
County Executive Molinaro said, “Our DPW Highway crews work tirelessly to maintain our highway system for the countless visitors and nearly 300,000 people who call Dutchess County home. We are proud to put resources toward keeping our roadways clean and green. I encourage all residents to join a volunteer cleanup effort in celebration of Earth Day and throughout the year. By doing our part and keeping our community litter-free we can better preserve our region’s natural beauty, encourage a more environmentally conscious way of life, and welcome visitors with pride.”
Some of the county roads scheduled for the four-day cleanup include:
Crews recently completed trash cleanup and boom mowing on Baxtertown Road/Jackson Street (CR 34) in Fishkill. Dutchess County’s Highway Construction and Maintenance Division maintains nearly 400 centerline miles of county roads annually.
John Metzger, Dutchess County Legislator and Chairman of the Public Works and Capital Projects Committee said, “It is important to raise awareness about the benefits of improving our environment on Earth Day and maintaining green habits all year long. I thank our DPW Highway crews, as well as the many volunteers, for their commitment to keeping Dutchess County beautiful.”
Organizations and residents who are interested in helping keep Dutchess County’s roadways clean and scenic can participate in the County’s Adopt-A-Highway program. Organizations are encouraged to apply by calling (845) 486-2925. The New York State Department of Transportation and several local municipalities also offer Adopt-A-Road programs for state and local roadways.
“This annual cleanup is just one more way our Highway crews work to ensure our roads are safe and beautiful. By disposing of trash properly and taking the time to pick up litter when necessary, everyone can contribute to keeping our roadways clean for residents and visitors alike,” said Dutchess County Commissioner of Public Works Bob Balkind.