Recycling is Coming to all NYCHA Developments
In line with Mayor Bill de Blasio’s goals for a healthier, more sustainable New York, NYCHA is introducing a recycling initiative that will affect every NYCHA family.
A letter from NYCHA Chair and CEO Shola Olatoye and the New York City Department of Sanitation (DSNY) is introducing residents to the recycling initiative. Included in NextGeneration NYCHA (see p.1), the recycling initiative is designed to bring the Authority into compliance with the City’s strengthened recycling laws by the end of 2016.
Outdoor recycling stations that include bins for paper and cardboard, as well as bins for metal, plastic and glass will be installed at five developments: Sheepshead Bay, Nostrand, Boynton Avenue, Bronx River and Bronx River Addition Houses. Site assessment teams are now visiting all developments to determine—with resident input— the best locations for the outdoor recycling stations, as well as storage locations from where DSNY will pick up the recyclables.
The Resident Engagement Department has organized kick-off meetings at each development prior to the roll out this month.
“We are getting all the stakeholders involved from the beginning to ensure long-term success,” said Elena Tenchikova, project manager for implementing recycling in Operations Support Services. “We’ve held outreach meetings with residents at several developments and many are excited and looking forward to recycling.”
The implementation of the waste management and recycling plan includes coordination from many NYCHA departments and cooperation from residents is essential for its success.
Along with promoting a cleaner environment, recycling will eliminate sharp glass and other objects that pose a danger to property management staff during the waste disposal process.
”There is a higher environmental awareness in residents than in years past and I think we’ll have an enthusiastic response,” said Lee Trotman, Resident Engagement Department assistant director.
“This is a wonderful effort to encourage residents and the community to live healthier,” adds Barbara McFadden, Sheepshead Bay Houses Resident Association President. “The grounds will be cleaner, there will be less pollution, and the children are looking forward to recycling at home.”
