Kenosha Reporter

Kenosha County is launching an Adopt-A-Highway program, which was announced on Earth Day. The initiative mirrors the long-standing state program, inviting individuals and organizations to help remove debris and litter from roadside areas.

Samantha Kerkman, the County Executive, marked the launch during an Earth Day event at Brighton School. Kerkman commented, “I am proud to launch this program today, and this is the perfect time and place to do it.” She noted that the program provides an organized way for people to enhance the environment, affirming its role in beautifying the community.

The program allows participants to adopt two-mile sections of county trunk highways, requiring cleanup efforts at least twice annually from April to November. Participants receive safety gear, and they can be recognized with signs on their adopted segments. Participation is free.

County Board Supervisors Frederick Brookhouse and Keith Gray have been acknowledged for their support. The board's approval followed an initiative spearheaded by Brookhouse, who initiated a similar effort in his neighborhood. Brookhouse described the initiative as reflecting community pride and promoting good citizenship, while Gray urged students to participate in roadside cleanups.

Two highway sections are already adopted, including a stretch in Brighton previously part of the state program. One area honors the late veterinarian Kevin Nelson, with sign recognition unveiled during the launch.

Kerkman credited Supervisors Laura Belsky and Erin Decker for their contributions to the program's logo, which was crafted by Jill Rozell, the county's Office Administrator and Community Engagement Coordinator. She also thanked Brighton School and its Administrator, Carrie Reid, for hosting the event.