Downtown Raleigh launches new above-ground waste collection system

The City of Raleigh is ready to spring forward with the launch of a pilot above-ground waste collection system.

On Wednesday, the City of Raleigh is piloting two new high-capacity containers to collect mixed recyclables and flattened cardboard. The new trash, recycling and cardboard (TRAC) bins will be housed in a corral and converted parking spaces – rather than on sidewalks.  

The first phase of the pilot program will be located in the 100 block of E. Martin Street between Wilmington Street and Blount Street.

With the lack of alleyways downtown, many Raleigh sidewalks are currently lined with 95-gallon rolling solid waste carts. The city said this not only impacts sidewalk access but has an offensive odor and is unsightly. It was the top issue identified in a 2018 downtown cleanliness survey, according to the city.  

Each TRAC bin has a 522.5-gallon capacity, the equivalent of more than five solid waste carts. There will be two TRACs in the first phase of the pilot – one for loose recyclables and one for flattened cardboard. The TRACs will be secured to reduce recycling contamination and enhance the safety and cleanliness of downtown Raleigh.

Phase one of the pilot will last 30 days. Ashley Christensen businesses, Beasley's and Fox Liquor Bar will be the first to use the new collection system.

"Our restaurants are honored to participate in this exciting pilot program," said Ashley Christensen, owner of AC Restaurants. "I am confident that this initiative will result in a more visually pleasing and collaborative collection solution for downtown businesses.

"This project stands to greatly improve the collection process as a whole, resulting in a cleaner and healthier city to live, work, and play."