Public Works on schedule with storm debris removal

Published on October 30, 2024

Collection of yard debris left by Hurricanes Helene and Milton is proceeding on schedule in Gainesville. Pickup of all remaining storm waste is expected to be complete before the Thanksgiving holiday.

With crews working seven days a week during daylight hours to load material as quickly as possible, the city’s contracted debris hauler has removed approximately 25,000 cubic yards, or 1,250 standard truckloads, of storm waste to date. Beginning the first week of November, the Public Works Department will begin supplementing the existing 20 contractor units with 10 additional city units to speed the remaining collection efforts.

“Residential customers who haven’t had storm debris picked up can expect to see trucks in their neighborhoods in the coming days,” said Public Works Director Brian Singleton. “We anticipate finishing the first pass next week.”

Each Gainesville neighborhood will receive a second pass in November, with the estimated 35,000 cubic yards of storm debris that remains slated for pickup within the next 30 days. At that time, GFL Environmental will resume regular yard waste service for residential customers.

Commercial property owners (businesses, apartment properties, churches, etc.) are responsible for making their own arrangements to remove storm debris. These costs may be eligible for FEMA reimbursement assistance. For more information, visit FEMA.gov.