Raleigh – North Carolina’s highways are bursting with color thanks to the work of the N.C. Department of Transportation’s roadside crews. From sunflower fields to stretches of poppies, these vibrant displays are a result of the department’s Wildflower Program, which has been enhancing roadways since 1985.
This week, NCDOT is recognizing the 2024 Wildflower Award winners, honoring the teams responsible for transforming roadsides into scenic landscapes. Sponsored by The Garden Club of North Carolina, these awards highlight the most visually striking flower beds across the state and the efforts of NCDOT staff who maintain them.
“Behind every vibrant wildflower bed is a team of skilled and hardworking individuals,” said Jeremy Goodwin, NCDOT’s roadside environmental engineer. “Their dedication transforms our roadsides into living landscapes that add a splash of color to our highways, support pollinators, and make travel a little more enjoyable for everyone who drives our roads.”
2024 Wildflower Award Winners
William D. Johnson Daylily Award:
- First Place – Division 9, I-40 and U.S. 421 split in Forsyth County
- Second Place – Division 12, I-85 Welcome Center in Cleveland County
Best Regional Wildflower Planting, Eastern Region:
- First Place – Division 4, U.S. 264 at N.C. 42 in Wilson County
- Second Place – Division 2, I-587 at Mozingo Road in Pitt County
Best Regional Wildflower Planting, Central Region:
- First Place – Division 7, N.C. 29 at Business 29 in Rockingham County
- Second Place – Division 9, U.S. 52 at Perch Road in Stokes County
Best Regional Wildflower Planting, Western Region:
- First Place – Division 11, I-77 at Weigh Station in Surry County
- Second Place – Division 13, I-26 East at Exit 17 in Buncombe County
Best Overall Division Wildflower Program:
- First Place – Division 7 (Alamance, Caswell, Guilford, Orange, and Rockingham counties)
- Second Place – Division 12 (Alexander, Catawba, Cleveland, Gaston, Lincoln, and Iredell counties)
The Wildflower Program was initiated in 1985 by former North Carolina First Lady Dottie Martin, who was inspired by a Wall Street Journal article about Texas’ roadside blooms. What started as a simple idea has since grown into a statewide tradition, enhancing the natural beauty of North Carolina’s highways, supporting pollinators, and creating a more enjoyable experience for travelers.
