Houston Enlists Contractor to Clear $2 Million Trash Pileup

Residents of Houston, Texas, are finally set to see relief from a significant trash backlog in their neighborhoods, as the city has contracted private firm Ashbritt to address the issue. Starting on Wednesday, the company will begin clearing heavy trash that has accumulated in various areas, a situation that has frustrated residents for months. This initiative will cost taxpayers approximately $2 million.

The city plans to focus on the southwest side first, then progress northward. Residents like Philip D’Antoni, who lives on Polk Street in the east side, have expressed their dissatisfaction with the delay in trash pickup. D’Antoni noted that a considerable pile of heavy trash has been sitting outside his home for the past 90 days. “It’s disappointing that it hasn’t been picked up, and I was about to call 311 today, but glad I ran into you guys,” he commented.

The city’s mayor’s office stated that Ashbritt has previously assisted with waste removal during significant weather events, including the Derecho and Hurricane Beryl. This new agreement will enhance the efforts of the city’s 27 heavy trash crews, providing additional resources to help manage the growing backlog.

D’Antoni expressed hope that this added support will lead to a cleaner neighborhood in the near future. “I’m pretty laid back and can tolerate it for probably another 30 days. I’m putting the house on the market January 1, 2024, and it better be spick and span,” he stated.

The mayor’s office confirmed that Ashbritt operates under a long-term contract, which will be reviewed as necessary based on the progress of the work. As the city takes steps to address the trash issue, residents are eagerly anticipating the removal of unsightly piles that have marred their communities for far too long.