As unincorporated Pinellas County residents reckon with the aftermath of a recent storm, time is running out to dispose of storm-related debris at the Icot Boulevard site. The facility at 13600 Icot Boulevard, Clearwater, will shut down to the public at the close of this week, 6 p.m. Sunday, as reported by Pinellas County's news release.
Following the closure, those living outside city limits will need to swiftly adapt by either hiring a hauler with access to a private site or to patiently wait for Pinellas County’s debris contractor to make their rounds. The county has set its sights on wrapping up the first wave of debris collection in time for Thanksgiving, aiming to thereafter quickly follow up with one final sweep.
In justifying the closure, county officials highlighted a steady decline in the number of loads the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) will reimburse, coupled with what they describe as “significant progress” in debris collection efforts. By yesterday morning, the county had amassed over 12,861 loads of storm debris, tallying up to a substantial 366,831 cubic yards.
Residents situated within city boundaries who find themselves mired in questions on how best to proceed with their storm debris should look no further than their respective city officials for guidance. Such individuals stand ready to assist and provide crucial information during this phase of recovery and rebuilding.
