Oak Park has a graffiti problem. It also has a litter problem. While it is not alone on this issue, as most communities deal with both, I would love to think that Oak Park can be unique in finding solutions to these problems.
When I was a member of the Oak Park Environment and Energy Commission more than 20 years ago, Karen Rozmus was the wonderful Oak Park Public Works Department environmental services manager. She signed Oak Park up for the Keep America Beautiful Program on June 19, 2000, in affiliation with Keep Illinois Beautiful. The village became an official part of this group to create action and awareness about litter, the environment and personal responsibility.
A few years later, my daughter and her Girl Scout troop painted this mural under the Clinton and South Boulevard viaduct. There is a colorful mural facing this one as well.
This is what the viaduct looks like today.
Let’s re-dedicate our community to do more to reduce litter, minimize waste, and beautify Oak Park.
Residents are encouraged to participate in the Adopt a Block, Neighborhood Clean-Up Program and Green Block Party Program, which are part of the Keep Oak Park Beautiful initiative.
I believe our community also needs to come up with viable solutions to combat litter and graffiti.
Melanie Weiss
Oak Park