Mayor Michael R. Bloomberg and Sanitation Commissioner John J. Doherty announced the deployment of additional refuse and recycling collection trucks to service predominantly Orthodox Jewish neighborhoods throughout the City in anticipation of the traditional pre-Passover Chometz clean-up. The Department of Sanitation's goal is to collect the additional refuse before the Passover holiday that starts on Thursday, March 28, 2002. Residents in the special collection areas should discard trash and other bulk items the week prior to the holiday starting Monday, March 18th, and by no later than Tuesday, March 26th. Recyclables should continue be placed at the curb on the regularly scheduled day. However, during this period, summonses will not be issued in designated areas if recyclables are placed out on a day other than the regular recycling day.

"This special program is one of the many ways that the Department of Sanitation works with New York's communities," said Mayor Michael R. Bloomberg. "This common sense program relieves significant stress from those celebrating Passover, with minimal effect on the operations of City services."

"I think this is another clear indication of our Mayor's commitment to serve our community and it's special needs," said Councilmember Simcha Felder.

"The Department of Sanitation is pleased to offer this annual service to a number of Jewish communities throughout the City during this festive holiday," said Sanitation Commissioner John J. Doherty.

From Monday, March 18th, through Tuesday, March 26th increased collection frequency will begin within the following community boards: Brooklyn 1, 9, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 17, and 18; Queens West 6 and 9; Queens East 8 and 14; Staten Island 2 and 3. Recyclables should be placed at the curb the evening before collection on the regularly scheduled day.

Please note before discarding a refrigerator, freezer, air conditioner, water cooler, de-humidifier or other appliance containing CFC gas, residents must call the Sanitation Action Center at (212) 219-8090 or visit the website: www.nyc.gov/sanitation and make an appointment for placement of these items for processing. Once serviced, the item will be picked up on regularly scheduled recycling days. In addition, the Department reminds residents that bulk items such as couches, mattresses, and discarded furniture can be placed at curbside year-round for removal on regularly scheduled collection days.