Mayor Whitmire Adds 25 New Trucks to Improve Recycling and Heavy Trash Collection

Mayor Whitmire Adds 25 New Trucks to
Improve Recycling and Heavy Trash Collection

HOUSTON — Mayor John Whitmire and the City of Houston Solid Waste Management Department (SWMD) unveiled the City’s ongoing investment in modern, reliable equipment today with the addition of 16 new recycling side loaders, one grappler, three rear loaders, and five tractor trailers to the collection fleet. They were joined by District I Council Member Joaquin Martinez at this morning’s news conference.

The new vehicles expand the department’s ability to provide timely, dependable service and reduce maintenance downtime. This latest delivery brings the City closer to fulfilling the Mayor’s commitment to place 50 new solid waste vehicles into service by the end of October.

Mayor Whitmire also announced that the City is working with outside contractors to assist with heavy trash collection and will conduct citywide cleanup sweeps.

«I am excited this morning because we’re witnessing a bold initiative that the City of Houston has never carried out. By the end of this month, we will have 50 new solid waste trucks on the streets of Houston,» said Mayor Whitmire. «Reliable service starts with reliable equipment. We’re investing in tools that help our employees do their jobs safely and efficiently while ensuring Houstonians get the consistent service they deserve.»

“These new trucks represent real progress in how we serve our residents,” said Larius Hassen, Director of Solid Waste Management. “Every vehicle we add strengthens our operations, supports our crews, and moves us closer to on-time collection.”

The new trucks were left unpainted and in their original factory color, saving approximately $3,000 per vehicle. The SWMD vehicles were immediately deployed for collection service following the announcement.