MoDOT has decided to discontinue the Adopt A Highway program, which began in 1987. All other litter programs provided by MoDOT remain unchanged.

The removal of the Adopt A Highway signs, some of which have stood for years in memory of loved ones and businesses, has caused dissatisfaction among many individuals.

Tammy Hefner, an Assistant Engineer with MoDOT, cited cost and safety concerns as the primary reasons for discontinuing the program. The Adopt A Highway program is being replaced by the Keeping Missouri Beautiful Program, where communities can engage in an annual cleanup of their chosen area after signing a litter safety form. As contracts expire, MoDOT is removing signs associated with the Adopt A Highway program. Under the new program, litter pickup occurs once a year, and no signs will be constructed. However, adopters are permitted to retain their signs by coordinating with the district.

MoDOT has assured that individuals with existing contracts will be allowed to fulfill their terms until expiration, with the final contracts scheduled to end in 2026.