Mobile's Automated Garbage Program to Expand

Jan 28th, 2005

The Mobile City Council has approved purchasing ten more automated garbage trucks and 28,000 garbage carts to expand the once-per-week automated garbage pick up service across I-65 to parts of the city still being served by the old system. The once weekly automated service now operates in most areas of the city east of Interstate 65 and Dauphin Island Parkway covering about 35,000 homes. The rest of the city is still serviced by a traditional twice-weekly pickup with three men and a truck.

The city began the new automated program in a portion of District 1 in May, before expanding in October to Districts 2,3,and the portion of 5 that's east of I-65. Mayor Mike Dow and Public Services Executive Director, John Bell advocated the change as a way to save the city money and since only one driver is needed on the new trucks. Another reason for the switch is safety, since traditionally two workers ride the back of garbage trucks and are at a greater risk of being injured on the job.

Residents will be contacted by mail with information about the city's new automated garbage plan for their area. They will be allowed to select the size garbage cart they prefer-most likely a 95 or 65 gallon container. Prior to beginning the new service, council members in districts 4, 5, 6 & 7 will hold community meetings to answer residents' questions and concerns.