A new pilot program, implemented by the Refuse Division, is reducing the number of trash dumpsters in alleys in Wards 3 and 5.  Across the City of St. Louis, the Refuse Division typically allocates one trash dumpster for every four households. The Refuse Division has identified areas where the number of trash dumpsters exceed that allotment, often resulting in an increase in illegal dumping and a decrease in service efficiency.”Our goal with this pilot is to further improve the efficiency and timeliness of our trash collection services,” said Street Department Director James Jackson. “We know that open dumpsters can attract illegal dumping, impacting the quality of life for our citizens and detracting from our workers’ top priority of collecting trash as efficiently as possible.”The Refuse Division expects to reduce by three hours the time needed for workers to complete their routes in the areas where the pilot program is being tested. In turn, the time saved will be used to improve trash collection services across the City. In addition, the program is expected to reduce the wear and tear on trash trucks, making more vehicles available for weekly collections.Since the City of St. Louis ended alley recycling in August 2025, the Refuse Division increased alley trash pick up to two times per week. In addition, the City increased the number of recycling drop-off locations for residents, resulting in an increase in materials recycled and a decrease in recycling contamination. 

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