GAINESVILLE, FL (352today.com) – After Hurricane Helene, the City of Gainesville is making important efforts to assist residents in removing the plant debris left behind. This update will inform you about curbside pick-up, safety measures, and the recovery process.
Curbside Collection for Yard Waste
The City of Gainesville has shared that there will be a curbside pick-up for yard waste affected by Hurricane Helene. Due to the large amount of debris, the Public Works Department will carry out several neighborhood clean-ups with the help of disaster debris contractors. Residents are asked to be patient as crews work to finish the clean-up as quickly as possible.
Guidelines for Placing Yard Waste Curbside
To facilitate an efficient collection process, residents are asked to adhere to specific guidelines:
- Branch Specifications: Regular limitations on weight (40 lbs) and diameter (8 inches) are waived. However, please limit each branch’s length to 5 feet.
- Loose Debris Handling: For leaves, small twigs, and branches, use brown lawn bags or reusable containers. Avoid using plastic bags or tarps, as these materials hinder recycling efforts.
- Avoid Blockages: Do not obstruct streets, driveways, sidewalks, drainage ditches, or storm inlets with your debris. Ensuring clear access will help crews work more effectively.
- Proximity to Infrastructure: Place yard waste away from mailboxes, utility lines, and other above-ground obstructions to avoid complications during collection.
- Contractor Debris: If a tree service contractor has worked on your property, they are responsible for hauling off any debris.
Local Infrastructure Recovery Efforts
The City’s Public Works Department is not just removing debris; they are also working hard to restore important services. Teams are concentrating on reopening roads and fixing traffic signals that were damaged by the storm. They are working closely with the Gainesville Police Department to keep traffic safe during the cleanup.
As of the most recent update, 237 of the 249 traffic lights managed by the city are working. However, about 40 work orders still need to be coordinated with utility companies to deal with dangerous power lines.
Staying Updated and Patient
The city is working on clearing all plant debris, but the timeline may change depending on how detailed the final checks are. Residents should keep an eye out for scheduling updates as new information comes in.