Have you ever seen those green signs about adopting highways while driving around Texas? There’s a similar opportunity for streets here in the Alamo City.

No, we're not talking about swaddling a piece of concrete. The City of San Antonio's Adopt-a-Spot Program depends on volunteers to keep litter off the streets and out of its rivers + creeks. In return, the city puts up signs to give the adopter(s) some street cred.

Here’s how it works:

Step 1: Get a group together (think: Your neighbors, friends, or colleagues) or opt to adopt as an individual.
Step 2: Identify an outdoor public spot using the Adopt-a-Spot locator. Pro tip: The spot must be owned + managed by the City of San Antonio.
Step 3: Submit your form for the free program to Jean Martinez.
Step 4: Undergo safety training.
Step 5: Clean up your assigned segment of road for a minimum of one two-year agreement.
Step 6: The city picks up filled bags upon request.

See a pothole? Dial 311 to report it. | Photo by the City of San Antonio

Program perks

Once all the paperwork and training are squared away, here are some of the benefits of the program:

Free-of-charge Right-of-Way City permits for Adopt-A-Spot maintenance.
Free trash bags.
Street sign at your Adopt-A-Spot location with your group or organization’s name for the duration of your adoption period.
Vegetation maintenance help.

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