DPW Announces End of Blue Bin Distribution for Recycling in the City

Published on September 03, 2024

The Syracuse Department of Public Works (DPW) announced replacement blue bins are no longer available in the City of Syracuse. The end of the program in the city comes in alignment with Onondaga County Resource Recovery Agency’s (OCRRA) discontinuation of distributing new blue bins throughout Onondaga County.

To replace blue bins, DPW will distribute new 96-gallon covered recycling carts to residents, with delivery starting October 7 through October 19. The new recycling collection system builds on trash carts implemented in 2023 and will further improve service to residents, create safer conditions for sanitation works, and reduce litter. Recycling carts have also been shown to reduce trash disposal by increasing participation in recycling. City households will receive more information about recycling cart distribution in in the coming weeks.

Until new carts arrive, residents who don’t have a blue bin are advised to use alternative methods for recycling. Options include:

• Using a box for recyclables, which will be collected with regular recycling but not returned
• Repurposing existing reusable containers (i.e. trash can, plastic tote) with the OCRRA-provided recycling decal. These decals can be obtained by calling Cityline at (315)448-CITY (2489).

Residents can find additional information about the new recycling carts and interim recycling options by visiting the City’s website at syr.gov/carts or by calling Cityline at (315)448-CITY (2489).