Inmates collect 2,220 pounds of litter from I-57 ramps

JOHNSTON CITY, Ill., (KBSI) — An inmate work detail collected 2,220 pounds of litter from Interstate 57 ramps in Johnston City on Tuesday.

The cleanup effort was a collaboration between the Williamson County Sheriff’s Office and the Illinois Department of Transportation.

According to Sheriff Jeff Diederich, crews cleaned about half of the debris and will return to complete the job before moving on to the Marion ramps.

The work detail consisted of non-violent offenders who are eligible to participate in the sheriff’s “Inmate Work Detail” program.

Since the program began on Dec. 12, 2024, inmates have collected over 8,200 pounds of trash along Williamson County roadways.

The Illinois Department of Transportation provided mobile signage and a truck to ensure crew safety during the cleanup effort.

Inmates participating in work details wear bright orange clothing and are supervised by a uniformed deputy to ensure public safety.