Snow delays curbside leaf collection in Milwaukee
MILWAUKEE - Milwaukee Department of Public Works crews are still working to collect curbside leaf piles after last weekend's snowfall got in the way of an already delayed pickup effort – and more snow is on the way.
The backstory:
The official leaf rake-out deadline was Sunday, Nov. 30. This year's leaf drop came late in the season, preventing crews from finishing citywide collection before winter conditions set in.
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Those conditions include last weekend's significant snowfall, which began the day before the rake-out deadline, and the sustained cold temperatures that followed.
As a result, DPW crews are not able to return to collect small, scattered leaf piles that are frozen in place or buried in snow. Crews are instead focused on large leaf piles that city crews or residents previously consolidated.
Snow delays curbside leaf collection in Milwaukee
"Those piles, you know, eventually take up spaces to park, especially now in the winter," said resident Joseph Decora. "There are children running around as the school is right there, so safety is the biggest issue."
What's next:
The problem for the DPW is that the same employees who collect leaves also clear snow from the roads, and their focus has to be one or the other.
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Smaller leaf piles may remain until spring. The DPW said it will schedule and communicate a limited spring leaf rake-out once snow and ice conditions fully clear and equipment is transitioned back for seasonal operations.
"I would really hope that they would come by and pick up the piles of leaves that are still out," Decora said.
Snow, ice hinder Milwaukee paratransit services access
Snow and ice can be a nightmare for people with mobility issues and the paratransit services they rely on.
What you can do:
Residents can report large piles to help ensure they're not missed in one of three ways:
- Submit a request online,
- Use the MKE Mobile app
- Call 414-286-2489
Ald. Lamont Westmoreland is hosting a town hall where residents will get a chance to hear updates, ask questions and share concerns. It will take place at the Cooper Park Pavilion, near 87th and Chambers, at 6 p.m. Monday, Dec. 8.
The Source: The Milwaukee Department of Public Works released information about leaf collection.