Trash and recycling collections in the city will continue experiencing delays this week, according to an announcement by Streets Commissioner Carlton Williams. The delays are caused by the COVID pandemic: there are higher levels of residential trash tonnage due to people remaining in their homes for extended periods of time, as well as staff shortages.

This week, recycling collections across the city may be experiencing additional delays as Streets Department crews have been focusing on picking up trash first to help mitigate health risks and attracting rodents.

Although residents should expect delays, they are asked to set their trash and recycling materials out on their regular collection day. The Streets Department is asking residents to refrain from placing additional 311 requests for missed trash or recycling collection unless their materials remain curbside at least 48 hours behind regular schedule.

Due to staff shortages, the Streets Department is working with the City’s Office of Humans Resources to speed up the hiring process to bring on more employees quickly and will continue to hire each week until a sufficient staffing level is in place. It has also promoted most of its temporary workers to full time permanent employment.

To avoid collection delays, residents are strongly encouraged to use Sanitation Convenience Centers that will remain open seven days a week, from Monday through Sunday between the hours of 6 a.m. to 8 p.m.