137th/138th Alley: Notice from NYC Dept. of Sanitation

Dear Neighbors,

We have been advised that Sanitation will begin ticketing property owners for the improper placement of garbage that is adding to the increased rodent problems. If the problem is not brought under control we stand to lose the privilege of having our garbage picked up in the back.

Furthermore, extermination services that are being provided, are not working. The exterminator has informed us that as long as the rodents continue to have a “buffet” (all they can eat) from the garbage food, they won’t take the bait. Therefore, whether garbage is picked up in the back or front, the rodent problem will continue until attention to garbage disposal is better addressed.

Sanitation advises that garbage and recycling items should be put out after 4:00 PM on the evening before scheduled pick-ups. As a reminder, garbage and recycling pick-up schedules are as follows:

Monday, Wednesday and Friday - Garbage pick-up

Wednesday Only - Recycling pick - up

When a holiday falls on a day for pick-up, we are encouraging sanitation to provide next day services. We are also discussing with sanitation the use of tin trash cans as a deterrent to the rodents.

In response to numerous complaints, the Department of Health and Sanitation are scheduling a walk through within the next few weeks, to further assess the problem. 

Thank you kindly for your cooperation. 

Sincerely,

C. Virginia Fields
President
138th Street Strivers Row Landmark Block Association, Inc.