NEW YORK (PIX11) — Larger trash bins will be a part of the landscape citywide by 2032.
The next phase of New York City’s “trash revolution” was officially approved by city council on Wednesday.
City-branded dumpsters, known as ‘Empire Bins,’ have been in West Harlem for more than a year. They have also been placed in Fort Greene and Clinton Hill.
The city and councilmembers say rat reports have dropped.
NYC Councilmember Shaun Abreu chairs the sanitation committee and represents the Harlem neighborhoods.
“People notice the difference on our streets,” Abreu said.
By 2032, properties with over 31 units will be required to have an “Empire Bin,” which holds about four cubic yards of waste.
More: Latest News from Around the Tri-State
Buildings with 10-30 units can decide if they want regular trash bins or large “Empire Bins.” The bins are locked, accessible by key cards given to building staff.
New trash containerization rules went into effect last year across the city, requiring all properties with up to nine units to put trash in bins with secure lids.
The 6-year phase-in is due to the size of the city. The Department of Sanitation will decide the next areas to get the bins after an environmental review.
Property owners can be charged up to $55 per apartment for the empire bins.
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