In the aftermath of the recent storm, the City of Tampa faces a monumental task: clearing a staggering amount of debris over the next 90 days.
The storm left its mark on Tampa, particularly evident on O’Brien Street in Port Tampa, where remnants linger everywhere. Although some residents like Joe Phillip emerged relatively unscathed, many of his neighbors were not as fortunate, with elderly individuals being particularly hard-hit. As debris piles up along the streets, clearing it has become Tampa’s top priority according to Mayor Jane Castor.
Mayor Castor highlighted the sheer scale of the task, estimating about a million cubic yards of debris, likened to the area of 10,000 football fields. During a press conference, she urged residents to exercise patience as crews work tirelessly to manage this unprecedented cleanup effort.
The city aims to complete the debris removal within 90 days, prioritizing the hardest-hit areas initially. The focus will first be on household debris, followed by vegetative waste. This structured approach is crucial to handle the overwhelming quantities effectively.
Federal assistance is aiding the city’s efforts, with FEMA covering the entire cost of debris removal during this 90-day timeframe. A new city website, set to launch soon, will allow residents to track when their streets are scheduled for debris collection.
Community involvement is essential for a smooth process. Residents can contribute by transporting their debris to designated city sites themselves or ensuring proper curbside separation. Larry Washington, Tampa’s solid waste director, emphasized the importance of sorting tree debris, household items, and bulky waste into distinct piles to expedite collection.
Phillip, a local resident, remains philosophical about the extended recovery period, acknowledging the formidable force of nature. “You learn to live with it,” he remarked, reflecting a broader community sentiment as Tampa navigates its path to recovery.
Tampa is committed to efficiently handling the debris cleanup with both governmental support and community cooperation. The structured approach targets efficient debris removal, allowing the city to move forward after the storm’s impact.
Source: Abcactionnews
