The first phase of Chicago's grid garbage collection system will begin tomorrow, June 11, 2012, on the city's north side.

"We’ve been working hard to ensure our plans will continue to provide residents with the same level of refuse collection service or better, while saving significant resources," said Commissioner Thomas G. Byrne, Chicago Department of Streets and Sanitation. "We are eager to implement this new system on the north side and look forward to building on its success as we roll out across the city."

Residents who live within the phase one roll out boundaries in wards 40, 44, 46, 47, 48, 49 and 50 received "Change in Garbage Service" notices on their refuse cans last week informing them of their new day of service effective the week of June 11. 

The implementation of a grid garbage collection system in Chicago will increase garbage collection efficiency and crew productivity while saving taxpayers millions in costs. 

The new grid system, widely used by municipalities and private refuse haulers, will change collection routes from non-linear ward geography to a grid system with routes bordered by main streets and natural boundaries. The service model will concentrate sanitation workers in targeted areas of the city each day and create balanced service regions to improve daily collection performance. 

Residents who would like more information about the grid garbage collection system and related service changes are encouraged to visit the Chicago Department of Streets and Sanitation website at www.cityofchicago.org/dss, call 311 or contact their local ward office.

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