Residents across New York City express growing frustration over accumulating trash on sidewalks, now a week after a severe winter storm blanketed the area with more than a foot of snow. Sanitation efforts remain limited, leading to visible heaps of garbage bags and cardboard in multiple neighborhoods as crews work to clear snow and restore normal operations.
Upper East Side Complaints
In the Upper East Side, piles of refuse tower higher than vehicles on some blocks. Frederick Radie, a 55-year-old resident of 35 years, described the scene as “very dirty,” noting that collection has not occurred since the initial snowfall. His partner, Mirys Rosa, 61, called the situation “so gross, it’s disgusting,” especially embarrassing with visitors in town. Rosa criticized Mayor Zohran Mamdani’s call for patience, pointing out that the issue persisted from two weeks prior.
Chris Kendal, 38, echoed these concerns, stating, “It’s very concerning.” He highlighted that recycling, typically collected on Mondays, has sat untouched for nearly a week, questioning why services cannot resume amid ongoing city operations like bus routes.
One local defended the sanitation workers, acknowledging the overflowing trash as an “eyesore” but explaining that crews have faced overwhelming demands throughout the month.
Bronx and Upper West Side Challenges
Along the historic Grand Concourse in the Bronx, waste bags clutter streets just blocks from a recent mayoral event. A 51-year-old union member from Local 157 reported trash buildup for nearly three days, exacerbated by homeless individuals rummaging through bags. “Every time it snows, it gets worse,” he said, adding that while neighbors have tried to clean up, city efforts lag, particularly near the courthouse. The resident warned that the mess attracts rats and tarnishes the neighborhood’s appearance.
On the Upper West Side, recycling bundles overflow sidewalks, with doorman Angel Martinez reporting no pickups since January 19—almost two weeks ago. “Once in a while that happens where there is a big storm,” Martinez said, expressing hope for imminent service resumption.
Official Response and Delays
Sanitation officials announced midweek that limited collection is in progress, advising residents to place garbage curbside as usual but hold off on recycling due to ongoing snow removal. A department spokesperson confirmed slight delays, emphasizing prioritization of trash and composting to prevent further deterioration. “We are running hundreds of collection trucks each day in addition to ongoing snow operations,” the spokesperson stated. “We just ask for patience as we catch up.”
