Last week, state Department of Transportation (DOT) Regional Director Subi Chakraborti launched the Keep L.I. Highways Clean Week program, a five-day effort aimed at keeping our roads free of litter and debris. The week was a huge success, but efforts cannot stop there. Motorists must continue to make conscious efforts to keep Long Island's highways clean all year round.

Programs such as the clean week help us all to remember that we can keep our roadways free of litter and debris. By redoubling our efforts, we can help protect the aesthetic value of our roadways and guard against health and safety threats caused by garbage along our highways. This past week was a chance for all motorists to help by keeping garbage in their cars until proper trash containers were available, and was an opportunity to make all Long Islanders realize what they can do to help solve the litter problem.

The DOT, law enforcement agencies, construction contractors and the Adopt-A-Highway and Sponsor-A-Highway groups posted signs to alert motorists to do their part to keep the roadways clean and safe. The officials said litter and debris along roads are dangerous and unattractive impediments. For example, plastic bags and paper items can easily be blown by the wind and obstruct driver views if they lodge against car windshields.

As the warmer months arrive, garbage and debris can collect water and become breeding grounds for mosquitoes and other insects that can transmit diseases. Coordinated clean-up efforts will help keep neighborhoods and communities healthier throughout the summer

Please, do your part to help keep our streets and highways clean. This summer, thousands of residents and tourists will travel around our great island. Let us show them how much we care by keeping our roads clean and looking beautiful. A little extra effort from each one of us will help maintain a more scenic drive along our island and a healthier lifestyle for everyone.