CLEVELAND COUNTY LAUNCHES ROADSIDE TRASH PICKUP CAMPAIGN
New effort is part of five-year strategic plan and also includes litter prevention education campaign and increased opportunities for community feedback
Cleveland County Government today announces a new effort to remove litter from several of the county’s arterial roads, including Dixon Boulevard (Hwy 74), Fallston Road (Hwy 18), Post Road (Hwy 180), Polkville Road (Hwy 226), and Cherryville Road (Hwy 150). The effort is a response by the Cleveland County Board of Commissioners to citizens’ concerns about trash buildup on the county’s highways.
“Our roads are the first impression that we as a county make on newcomers,” Board of
Commissioners Chairman Doug Bridges said. “Even more importantly, many of our residents travel these roads every day. Cleveland County is a growing and forward-thinking community, and our roads need to reflect this.”
Beginning last week, residents should notice roadside workers throughout the county. Workers will use reflective vests and appropriate signage to ensure both their safety and that of passing drivers. Some of these workers will be county employees, while others will be contractors coordinated by Landfill Director Josh Davis.
“I am thrilled to take part in such an important effort so soon after joining the Cleveland County team,” Davis, who began his new role in February, said.
The litter pickup campaign will be paired with a litter prevention campaign which will include partnerships with schools located in Cleveland County. Over the next several months, staff will be developing the campaign which will be rolled out in schools this fall. Landfill officials will be available to visit students in any public or private school willing to participate. In addition, the county will be proactive in enforcing the county-wide solid waste ordinance.
“Physically removing trash from our roads is important, but just as critical is making sure that our young people learn about the impact of littering on our community,” Davis said. “That is how we stop this problem before it starts.”
The Cleveland County Board of Commissioners continues to encourage community feedback on litter and solid waste. In addition to calling county offices, community members can email cleaner.community@clevelandcountync.gov with requests for cleanup in specific areas.