ROCHELLE — The Rochelle Moose Family Center was recently honored by Transportation Secretary Randy Blankenhorn for their 20 years of service with the Adopt-A-Highway program. To commemorate the occasion, and to honor all Adopt-A-Highway groups, a redbud tree was planted on the campus of the Illinois Dept. of Transportation headquarters in Springfield.
The idea for the Moose Lodge Adopt-A-Highway came from member Al Crumbacher who applied back in November of 1996. The Moose Lodge is responsible for a section of IL Route 251 from IL Route 38 to Twombly Road.
Another Moose member, Paul Bearrows, has also been a part of the cleanup crew since the beginning.
“First impressions are important, and every year millions of visitors get their first glimpse of Illinois as they drive along our highways,” Blankenhorn said. “Our Adopt-A-Highway volunteers give hours of personal time and effort to ensure Illinois roads are well-kept and free of hazardous items. Their commitment is inspiring, meaningful and truly valued.”

Litter is more than just blight on the landscape. It is costly to clean up, impacts quality of life and economic development, and eventually ends up in waterways. As states look for alternative ways to keep roadways safe while facing budget cuts, the volunteers of the Adopt-A-Highway program are vital to helping achieve this goal.
“We’ve got some really dedicated groups in District 2,” said Illinois Dept. of Transportation District 2 Adopt-A-Highway coordinator, Ken Tressel. “They’ve made a real difference in our communities.”
Whether intentional or accidental, litter begins with the individual. The most littered item is cigarette butts, followed by food and candy wrappers and loose paper.
“We are very grateful for the invaluable contributions made by the Adopt-A-Highway volunteers,” concluded Tressel.
To learn more about the Adopt-A-Highway program, visit www.idot.illinois.gov/about-idot/employment-opportunities/community-involvement/index.