Crews from the Allentown Department of Public Works collected more than 26-tons of trash from a recent one-day cleanup of illegal dumping.  A subsequent investigation is expected to result in a citation against one of the alleged perpetrators.

On June 17, crews from the Bureaus of Recycling and Solid Waste and Streets, using heavy equipment, cleaned-up illegally dumped furniture, construction debris, old televisions and tires and even a toilet and two sinks from N. Bradford Street.  They collected bags of items like bottles, cans, cardboard and yard waste that could have been put out for recycling.

The debris was loaded onto three 40-yard boxes and taken to Waste Management for disposal.

Illegal dumping in the city of Allentown carries a minimum fine of $1,000 and a maximum fine of $5,000.  The city also seeks restitution for the cost to clean-up the illegally dumped items.

An investigation of the dumped items has resulted in SWEEP Violation Tickets being issued to four persons and one expected citation that will be filed in District Court against another of the alleged perpetrators.

It is important to note that had these individuals taken the proper steps to recycle and to put out the trash correctly for curbside pick-up, there would be no fine and additional costs.

Had the individual taken items such as concrete, brick, and construction material to a recycler, landfill or transfer station, the cost for disposal would have been far less than fine and restitution costs.

Residents are encouraged to call the Bureau of Recycling and Solid Waste for correct and legal disposal options.

The city has seen an increase in illegal dumping of construction debris, furniture, and TVs.  The public is asked to report illegal dumping in progress, and if possible, assist the bureau by capturing a picture or video of the alleged violator and/or a license plate.  A picture or video will aid SWEEP in enforcing illegal dumping.

To report illegal dumping, please call 610-437-7770 or email recycle@allentownpa.gov

 

For more information, please call the Bureau of Recycling and Solid Waste at 610-437-8729 or visit www.allentownrecycling.gov/recycle.