Keeping our roadways free from litter and debris not only improves the health of our environment, it enhances the experience of driving in Maryland - for both residents and visitors. The State Highway Administration's Adopt-A-Highway Program provides a way for community groups to show their state pride and help keep the Free State litter free. Since the program started in 1989, SHA has partnered with more than 120,000 Marylanders who have cleaned and enhanced over 15,000 miles of roadside.
How the program works
Any local community organization (such as a civic, social or school group) or family is eligible to adopt a highway. Groups agree to adopt a one-mile stretch of highway to clean it at least four times a year. At least one member of the group must be 18 years old or older. Youth 12-17 years old are allowed to participate with adult supervision, but for safety reasons, children under the age of 12 are not allowed to participate in litter pick-up events. SHA will provide your group with training, safety vests, trash bags and tips on how to pick up trash and recyclables. We will also place two signs recognizing your organization at both ends of the adopted roadside.
Getting started
The Adopt-a-Highway Coordinator in your county will guide you through the process, identify a stretch of highway to adopt, give you safety training materials and provide you with supplies. Your coordinator also will assist in making sure litter clean-ups run smoothly and safely. Please click here for a list of local Adopt-a-Highway offices. Once an adoptable road is agreed upon, you will receive a Group Adopt-a-Highway contract and information packet. Please contact your local public works agency if you wish to adopt a county road or a city street that is not maintained by SHA. Roads maintained in Maryland by the SHA include non-toll numbered routes and do not include any roads inside Baltimore City.
Litter Awareness Program
As an additional public service, SHA offers support for litter awareness events at schools and civic events. The program can provide materials such as coloring books, brochures, speakers and visits from our Litter Critter characters. Please contact the Adopt-a-Highway Coordinator in your district for further information and scheduling.
Please contact us at:
Beverly A. Goetz, Program Manager
Maryland State Highway Office of Maintenance
7491 Connelley Drive
Hanover, MD 21076
Phone: 1-877-624-6863 (toll free) and 410-582-5557
Email: bgoetz@sha.state.md.us