CULLMAN, Ala. – The City of Cullman is recognizing the employees who help keep public rights of way clean, safe and attractive, while also reminding residents that proper lawn care plays a role in roadway safety.
The city recently thanked members of its Right-of-Way Maintenance Department in recognition of Right of Way Professionals Week, which was observed June 8-14.
“While we’re a little late, we still want to recognize and thank the dedicated employees of the City of Cullman’s Right-of-Way Maintenance Department,” the city stated in a release Tuesday.
According to the city, right-of-way crews maintain public rights of way and easements across Cullman throughout the year. Their work includes mowing and trimming roadside areas, managing vegetation, picking up litter and helping keep the city clean and attractive.
The work often happens behind the scenes, but the results are visible across the community.
“These employees play an important role in protecting public infrastructure, improving visibility and safety along roadways, and preserving the appearance of our city,” read the statement. “Their hard work helps create a positive first impression for residents and visitors alike.”
Right-of-way maintenance is about more than appearance. Keeping grass, weeds, brush and debris controlled along streets, drainage areas and public easements helps improve visibility for drivers, protects public infrastructure and supports safer travel for motorists, bicyclists, pedestrians and motorcycle riders.
It is also a reminder that residents and property owners can help with roadway safety through careful lawn care.
One common seasonal hazard is grass clippings blown or left in the roadway.
While it may seem minor, grass clippings can create a slick surface, especially when wet.
That can be particularly dangerous for motorcycle riders, who rely on a small contact patch between the tires and pavement.
The Alabama Law Enforcement Agency has previously included grass clippings in its motorcycle safety guidance, warning riders to watch for clippings on roadways because they may be slippery and cause crashes.
For drivers in larger vehicles, a thin layer of grass in the road may pass almost unnoticed. For someone on two wheels, that same patch can affect traction, braking and stability.
The safety concern is simple: what comes out of a mower should stay out of the road.
Residents mowing near streets are encouraged to point mower discharge away from the roadway, sweep or blow clippings back into the yard, clear sidewalks and driveways and avoid leaving grass, leaves or other yard debris where vehicles, bicycles or motorcycles travel.
Those steps also help keep storm drains and drainage areas clear. Grass clippings and yard debris can wash into drainage systems during heavy rain, contributing to blockages and localized water problems.
The City of Cullman’s recognition of its right-of-way employees highlights the daily work required to keep roadways, public areas and easements maintained. It also points to the shared responsibility residents have in helping keep the community safe and clean.
Right-of-way maintenance crews help protect visibility, improve roadside safety and preserve the appearance of the city. Residents can support that work by keeping clippings, litter and debris out of streets and drainage areas.
The city thanked the department for its service to Cullman residents.
“Thank you to our Right-of-Way Maintenance Department for your expertise, professionalism and dedication to serving the citizens of Cullman,” read the statement. “We appreciate all you do to help keep our community looking its best.”
