Good news for Houston residents tired of waiting for recycling pickup: As of this week, city officials say recycling service is officially back on track. However, not for everyone.
LATEST: Missed recycling pickup problem continues in SW Houston neighborhood
After more than a month of frustrating delays across neighborhoods like Greater Heights, Woodland Heights, Norhill, and the Third Ward, city officials announced that recycling crews are once again running normal routes.
The update follows weeks of complaints from residents whose recycling bins sat outside for over 40 days, exposed to the Texas heat, rain, and humidity. Many raised concerns about public health, parking issues, and pests.
In some cases, people resorted to driving to drop-off centers themselves, only to face long lines and limited options.
READ MORE: Residents get relief after weeks of recycling delays in Greater Heights
Still waiting on pickup? You’re not alone. KPRC 2 visited a neighborhood in Southwest Houston (ZIP code 77072) where pickup was scheduled for Monday, but no truck ever came.
What happened?
Screenshots shared to social media over the weekend showed trucks servicing streets in Greater Heights, Memorial Hermann neighborhoods, and beyond. However, yard waste collection remains behind schedule in several spots.
With the Fourth of July fast approaching, some neighbors worry about possible new delays. The city has acknowledged in the past that holidays often strain pickup schedules, but says it’s working to avoid further disruptions.
The City of Houston’s Solid Waste Management Department still does not offer an interactive map to track recycling pickup progress, something residents have repeatedly asked for during the delays.
READ MORE: Houston Solid Waste Management director resigns, talks about challenges with recycling program
Did your recycling get picked up this week? Let us know your ZIP code in the comments!
For background on the weeks-long recycling issues and resident frustrations, you can read our previous reports here.
