The volume of litter and debris removed from the Outer Ring Road during the latest clean-up is a reminder to the public of the need to be respectful of the environment, highway crews, and local motorists.

On Sunday, May 28, a cleanup of the Outer Ring Road between Logy Bay Road and Kenmount Road resulted in the equivalent of approximately three-and-a-half tandem dump trucks of garbage (35 cubic metres) removed from the highway. The garbage consisted of a number of household items, along with a couch, tires and metal debris from vehicles.

The 2,500 bags of garbage removed from the Outer Ring Road this weekend is approximately 500 fewer than the cleanup of the highway in October 2022, when five tandem dump trucks of garbage (50 cubic metres) was removed.

The Department of Transportation also used the closure to repair guide rails, remove graffiti painting, complete line painting and sweep interchanges.

The Provincial Government reminds everyone to dispose of their garbage and old household items in a responsible and appropriate manner. All residents have a responsibility to protect the environment and to be mindful of the safety of crews and fellow motorists.

Littering on the province’s highways is prohibited under section 163 (1) of the Highway Traffic Act. Penalties range from $100 to $500. In default of payment, an offender can face imprisonment for two to 17 days.

Quotes
“Highway safety is paramount, and litter and debris contribute to unsafe conditions on our roadways. It is incumbent on all of us to do our part to ensure that loads are properly secured. Let’s all do our part to remain vigilant in our efforts.”
Honourable Elvis Loveless
Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure

“Keeping our highways clean is important for our environment and the safety of drivers. We all need to take the time and effort to ensure that waste is disposed of properly and does not end up on our roadways. Every action we take to keep our province clean will make a difference.”
Honourable Bernard Davis
Minister of Environment and Climate Change

“Objects falling from vehicles are extremely dangerous, especially when traveling at higher speeds. Properly secured cargo loads can prevent loose debris from striking another vehicle or obstructing a driver’s view.”
Honourable Sarah Stoodley
Minister of Digital Government and Service NL

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