RIVERSIDE – (INT) – Riverside is under an emergency trash pick-up order because of its aging fleet of trash trucks.

Trash has been piling up on some streets. Trash containers left at the curb can attract insects and other vermin while also impacting scheduled street sweeping services.

City officials explain that eight trucks broke down in late August and were sidelined by 107-degree temperatures last week. Trucks overheated, could not be refueled with compressed natural gas or lacked air conditioning for the crews. The recent heat wave worsened the backlog of necessary truck repairs.

City Manager Mike Futrell issued the emergency order bringing in private hauler Athens Services to provide refuse service on several city routes.

Ten new trucks have been ordered and are expected to arrive in the next 6-months.

The emergency declaration will be reviewed periodically but could remain in place for six months, Futrell’s office said.

Story Date: September 30, 2024