Tempe Continues Monsoon Clean-Up

By admin July 25, 2014 13:16

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PHOENIX — The City of Tempe continues its efforts helping residents clean up in the aftermath of the July 13 monsoon storm, which brought heavy rains and powerful winds that uprooted trees, downed limbs and left some residents with lots of yard debris. Tempe has been collecting the vegetation, more than 300 tons in the past 10 days. – outside of the city’s regular bulk and green waste collection schedule – and including it in its green-organics-to-compost program. To provide a point of reference, the city collects on average 280 tons of green organics per month. The regular bulk trash schedule is also still in effect.

The process is taking longer than initially expected due to the severity of the storm, which brought down a significant number of mature trees and associated debris. City crews began the clean-up process immediately after the storm, working around the clock to clear trees, limbs and debris from streets. Tempe is focusing efforts on the areas hit hardest by the storm – south of Elliot Road between Kyrene Road and 101 Loop.

In addition to working extended days and shifts, Tempe is using several collection methods, including placing roll-off dumpsters in neighborhoods for green organic collection, adding extra work crews from other Public Works groups and contracting with an outside company to assist with the clean-up.

To help expedite the clean-up process and pace, residents are asked to cut yard material into sections no longer than six feet and place it adjacent to their property (without blocking the sidewalk or the street) or in a city roll-off dumpster, if one is available. If possible, neighbors should try to assist each other as getting the material placed to the curb quickly will eliminate the need to re-run streets multiple times. With more monsoon weather forecasted for the next four days, the public is encouraged to place any additional material as soon as possible.

Crews are working extended hours in extremely high temperatures; they appreciate all the kind words and encouragement they’ve been receiving from residents and appreciate residents’ help with the clean-up efforts.

Call 480-350-4311 for more information or to request collection. In order to keep residents informed about clean-up progress, the city will provide the next update on Tuesday, July 29 through Tempe News, Facebook, Twitter and email to neighborhood and homeowner associations.