Rochester bulk trash collection to return next week

Officials with the Department of Environmental Services for the City of Rochester have announced that they will restart bulk trash collection on Monday, May 18. Bulk trash is any item that a resident can’t place in standard refuse or recycling collection totes, such as landscaping debris and furniture.

City workers initially had concerns about being able to handle an increase in bulk collection waste with more people staying at home because of the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic. They also worried about the potential spread of the virus among workers. Given that Rochester didn’t experience the surge seen in other areas of the state, DES has decided that they can handle not only regular refuse and recycling collection, but also bulk collection without being overwhelmed or unnecessarily risking the health of workers.

DES Commissioner Norman Jones explained in a statement that it may take up to two weeks for workers to collect and dispose of all of the current bulk collection items that DES asked residents to temporarily set aside. He also thanked residents for their patience.

Per DES advice, any area resident who needs emergency bulk trash collection before next Monday can receive assistance. They simply need to call 311 and explain their situation.

Source:

City of Rochester