Automated Trash Pick-Up Coming to Smithfield

Smithfield residents will soon have a new system for trash and recycling pickup — the town is moving to an automated system starting Oct. 1.

The town will provide each home with two 65-gal. carts — one for trash and one for recycling — which are set up to fit with the device on trash trucks that grasp, lift, and empty the receptacles.

According to information on the town's "Talking Trash" web page, the new carts will be delivered to each home with no appointment necessary.

A FAQ on the automated trash program also explains that residents may write their address on their bins in a designated area, but can't otherwise mark the carts.

Other notes on the new system:

• Recycling carts will be required for any pick-up of trash carts under the existing "No Bin Bo Barrel" policy.
• Residents can return their old blue and green bins, and the town will be offering extended hours for drop-offs.
• Homeowners can schedule one extra pick-up per month at no charge to handle large clean-outs or large non-recyclable items.
• The town's yard waste pick-up program remains unchanged.
• Larger 96-gallon bins will be available at extra charge after the first six months of the program.

For more information, visit the Smithfield Recycling and Refuse web page, or call (401) 233-1034, ext. 105.