News Flash

Jan. 19, 2018  - Public Works crews plan to work through the weekend to catch up on trash collection, which has seen delays caused by two snowstorms, and aggravated by holidays and increased mechanical issues.

Crews on Tuesday and Wednesday morning before the snow were able to collect Tuesday's routes. Thursday as the roads cleared, they began the Monday routes rescheduled for the holiday; those should be completed today. Thursdays routes are scheduled for Saturday, and Fridays routes are scheduled for Sunday.

Residents are urged to keep their trash and recycling toters at the curb, and to park their cars a safe distance away. Public Works officials note that they have had trouble with weekend collections in the past because more people are at home and too many cars are parked too close to the toters. 

Earlier this week, City Manager Mary Bunting thanked residents for their "extraordinary patience" over the past three weeks. "We are behind, but we are working hard to catch up," said Public Works Director Lynn Allsbrook.

Hampton's solid waste drivers and some of its trucks are part of the snow response team, subject to being redeployed to pre-treat and clear roads. Also, the constant use of the equipment has resulted in mechanical issues that have put more than the usual number of trucks into the repair shop.

Crews have prioritized the collection of trash over recycling, because, especially as the weather warms, trash causes odors and can attract animals. Still, crews are hoping to complete the full set of routes by Sunday and be back to regular next week. 

Forecasters are predicting considerably warmer temperatures through Feb. 2, so additional snow this month is unlikely.