Trash and Recycling Collections Should Be Set Out One Day Late for the Week of August 10th

PHILADELPHIA – The Streets Department provides weekly updates to residents regarding the status of trash and recycling collection delays during the COVID-19 pandemic.

While trash collections have been on or close to a regular collection schedule over the last week, recycling collections have been significantly delayed as the Department prioritized trash collections to mitigate the threat to health and safety said Streets Commissioner Carlton Williams. Therefore, the Streets Department will collect this week’s trash and recycling a day behind the normal schedule beginning the week of Monday, August 10. Residents should set their trash and recycling materials one day later than their regular day. The Streets Department will use Monday, August 10th to only collect recyclable material that has been accumulating curbside from previous weeks.

Severe weather, increased tonnage and staffing shortages have severely impacted collections. Crews are continuously working throughout the weekend to collect materials that remain on the ground. Residents should anticipate the possibility of additional delays as the Department continues to balance increased tonnage and staff shortages. These factors have made on-time collections for both commodities a major challenge.

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. Residents can utilize the six Centers located around the City to drop off trash and recycling at any time throughout the week. Please remember to show proof of Philadelphia residency to access the Convenience Centers. Go to philadelphiastreets.com for a list of Sanitation Convenience Centers.

The Streets Department also launched a new initiative entitled: “Curb Your Waste” that offers tips for residents to manage their waste that will help reduce trash and litter, decrease delays and protect sanitation workers. To learn more about the status of trash and recycling collections status and tips to reduce waste log onto philadelphiastreets.com.

The Streets Department understands the residents’ concerns with collection delays throughout the pandemic and thank them for their understanding, cooperation and support during this unprecedented crisis.