Removal of the mountains of tree debris that line city streets is set to begin this week.
According to a news release, a “comprehensive debris removal operation” gets underway Monday and contractors may make “more than one pass” in the coming weeks if more are needed.
According to the release, debris crews have already begun clearing major roadways, public spaces and critical infrastructure areas. For residential areas, however, Augusta Environmental Services will provide scheduled pickups of storm-related debris, it said.
Residents are encouraged to separate storm debris from regular trash and put fallen trees, branches and building materials in certain designated areas.
“The primary goal is to restore safety and normalcy to the residents of Augusta-Richmond County as quickly as possible,” Administrator Tameka Allen said in a statement. “Removing debris left in the wake of the storm is crucial to keeping Augusta’s roads clear and preventing any potential hazards.”
Allen said the teams will prioritize areas “that are most affected.”
Licensed debris removal contractors have been hired to expedite the clearing process, focusing on downed trees, damaged structures, and hazardous materials, according to the release.
Last week, the Augusta Commission approved hiring a contractor and a consultant to facilitate the removal of storm debris.
The commission agreed to spend up to $6.3 million, a number that Allen said may increase, with Ceres Environmental Services Inc., to remove the debris.
It also hired Coodwyn, Mills & Cawood for an amount not to exceed $550,000 to perform debris monitoring.
Goodwyn’s role includes keeping the city informed, selecting and permitting debris monitoring sites, scheduling and managing staff, collecting load tickets, reconciling invoices and preparing a report to secure reimbursement from FEMA.
Of the total Augusta will spend up to $300,000 for Goodwyn to prepare Augusta’s application for reimbursement.
Regular garbage pickup continues, no recycling
Augusta’s waste-haulers are already working their normal routes as possible, according to the city, and working to catch up on missed collections.
Recycling won’t be taking place, and residents can use both their recycling and garbage containers to place garbage at the curb, it said.
Other closures, openings
While most city operations resume Tuesday and the Augusta Judicial Center reopens Wednesday, all Augusta Circuit Superior Court trials from Oct. 7-11 are cancelled, according to court officials. Jurors summoned for the weeks of Oct. 7 and Oct. 14 have been excused.
All other court proceedings in Richmond and Burke counties will continue as planned. If someone has a hearing they cannot attend, the attorney should contact the judge’s office directly.
All Columbia County Superior Court hearings also are cancelled this week, court officials said.
Augusta Transit resumes limited service Monday. The service will operate Routes 3-6 and 8-9 only, with diversions along the routes, according to a news release.
For more Hurricane Helene information and tips, visit the following:
Augusta Mayor Garnett Johnson – Facebook
Augusta, Georgia Government – Facebook
