Garbage, Recycling & Yard Waste Optimization May Impact Collection Times This Summer

Starting Monday, June 12, the City's Solid Waste & Recycling division will begin to implement collection changes, which will be completed over the summer. As a result, residents may notice their garbage/recycling/yard waste collection workers arriving at new times on their regular collection day.

All residents are reminded to have waste carts ready for collection by 7 a.m. on their regular collection day. The 7 a.m. collection deadline is not new, although residents may have become accustomed to the time their drivers typically arrive to collect materials. The City is understanding that these changes can be sensitive and sometimes confusing; Solid Waste & Recycling division customer service staff are prepared to help with any questions that arise. Residents are encouraged to contact the Solid Waste & Recycling division at 319-286-5897 if their carts were set out by 7 a.m. and have not been collected by 2 p.m. on their regular collection day.

These changes are being implemented thanks to new truck-routing software that ensures efficient, cost-effective operations and improves our environmental footprint. By optimizing the routes collection vehicles take, drivers will travel fewer miles each day and use less fuel. This change is in support of the Cedar Rapids Community Climate Action Plan, Goal 1A, to reduce carbon emissions (including transportation) by 45% by 2030, and to reach net-zero by 2050.