Transients, Illegal Dumping Could Change Phoenix Trash Collection
While most Phoenix households have curbside collection, more than 20 percent toss their trash in big bins located in alleys behind their homes. Several years ago the Public Works Department wanted to move collection from alleys to streets saying it would be more efficient, but reportedly not enough residents bought into the idea. Now, that may be changing.
In a written request to the city manager, Councilmembers Debra Stark and Daniel Valenzuela said, “ ... our transient population is a growing problem” and “By closing our alleys, residents may find less problems with dumping in alleys and transients living in the alleys.”
Their suggested pilot program still needs to be finalized. It would require a formal review process and support from at least 75 percent of property owners. Moving trash collection would not close alleys to traffic or utility services.
In their request, Stark and Valenzuela said, “We want to proceed slowly to ensure neighborhood buy-in. It is important that the residents have the ability to fully understand the program, but we believe this can be a win-win by saving money and deterring unwanted activities in alleys.”
The alleys currently being considered are in the Royal Palm and Sunnyslope neighborhoods.
