WARWICK, RI –  Mayor Scott Avedisian’s office warned residents Thursday that a broken trash truck (RS-54) could cause trash and recycling pickup to be delayed.
In August 2017, the truck’s engine broke down and has since been idle, according to a statement from the Mayor’s office. T o offset pickup delays, the Automotive Division has been working overtime to keep up with maintenance and repair schedules of all other sanitation vehicles, according to the statement.
Chris Beneduce, supervisor of the Warwick Sanitation & Recycling Office, said there are 15 automated trucks; 7 Trash, 7 Recycling, 1 permanently out of service (broken).
Usually, the Mayor’s office reported, there are two sanitation/recycling trucks down per day due to repair needs. That, coupled with the loss of RS-54, means that collection routes are now currently down three trucks per day. With aging fleet vehicles in near constant need of repairs, and without a replacement for RS-54, it has become increasingly difficult to maintain a timely collection schedule.
A bid to purchase a new sanitation truck was submitted to the City Council in the fall of 2017, according to Avedisian’s office.
“Residents are asked for their patience as all parties work towards an amicable compromise to address the issue,” that statement read.
Author: Rob Borkowski
Rob has worked as reporter and editor for several publications, including The Kent County Daily Times and Coventry Courier, before working for Gatehouse in MA then moving home with Patch Media. Now he's publisher and editor of WarwickPost.com. Contact him at [email protected] with tips, press releases, advertising inquiries, and concerns.
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