Hickory residents can get ready to bid farewell to the ankle-deep seas of autumn leaves. According to a recent announcement covered by the City of Hickory's website, curbside leaf collection is slated to commence on November 10. This community service, courtesy of the City's Solid Waste Division, orbits back into action, providing two rounds of leaf pickups per region throughout the designated period. While we might not yet feel the crispness of fall in the air, the signs of the season are unmissable in the golden and auburn foliage carpeting our yards.
Until leaves begin their sanctioned journey to the curb, Hickory's denizens should refrain from raking leaves roadside. The City of Hickory encourages the use of reusable yard waste bags, designated 32-gallon containers, or clear plastic bags until the official start date. Those crystal bags can be procured at places like City Hall or the Public Services Complex, and for those with a penchant for convenience, a special leaf collection is on the table for a nominal fee. Just hit up the number 828-323-7500, and your leafy troubles might just evaporate.
Last season's impressive haul of over 8 million pounds of leaves bears testament to the efforts of the Public Works crews, who are gearing up for another year of brisk and efficient service. Hickory's residents can expect the same commitment to tidiness as they've known, with the Northwest A region being the first to see collection trucks from November 10-14. Not to be left out, the Southeast and Southwest areas will have their leaf piles whisked away starting November 24, adding a touch of pre-holiday clean-up to the festive period.
The City of Hickory's got tech on its side too, offering up an interactive map at their website for folks to track their leaf collection schedule. However, given the hands-on nature of such operations, delays due to things like weather or staffing issues may occur. City officials will swing out updates should there be any shifts in the schedule. Solid Waste Manager Andrew Ballentine cautions residents, saying "It is important for residents to follow the 'Leaf Pickup Tips' to avoid unnecessary delays and ensure an efficient pickup for all."
