Montclair, Augusta: Cleanup Efforts in Full Swing After Storm Debris Accumulation
In the heart of Augusta, Georgia, a scene unfolds that many residents are all too familiar with these days. Streets in the Montclair area are lined with a full block of storm debris, leaving homeowners eagerly anticipating the arrival of cleanup trucks. Alva Gaskin, a resident on Skinner Road, shared his thoughts, saying, “I have seen them up and down this road, but I think they’re around here on Skinner Road collecting, I don’t think they’re up here yet.”
Debris Management Sites: A New Approach
As the effects of the recent storm linger, the city has stepped up its efforts to tackle the growing piles of debris. A new strategy has emerged, designating Lake Olmstead Stadium as a drop-off site for storm debris. This site now joins Fleming Park, Eisenhower Park, and the local landfill
as designated debris management areas. According to Steve Cassell, who serves as Augusta’s debris removal consultant, “The strategy was always to open spots closest to the really hard hit areas to shorten haul routes, and this is our next phase we’re going to open this thing up.”
This development comes as a relief for residents who are experiencing what has been termed “debris fatigue.” Gaskin noted, “Whatever is convenient for the trucks, that’s what matters.” Indeed, these designated sites are crucial for allowing the larger trucks, tasked with hauling away significant amounts of debris, to have the space they need to operate efficiently.
Safety First: Stay Away from Cleanup Areas
However, with all this activity comes an important reminder from Cassell: “The one thing I ask is for the public to stay away from these areas, especially Eisenhower Park. There’s people coming… I get it, it’s interesting. Golf carts and kids in areas of large trucks, stuff shooting out.” Safety is paramount, and the last thing anyone wants is for curiosity to lead to accidents in these busy debris zones.
Progress Reports: Moving Forward
Though it’s clear that weeks of work remain ahead, the progress being made is encouraging. Cassell reported, “We’ve gotten over 30,000 cubic yards in the last two days. Hopefully, we’ll get more than that today, so that’s a good start.” In total, over 150,000 cubic yards* of debris have reportedly been cleared since the cleanup began. It’s a significant start, but Cassell cautioned that there is much more debris still waiting to be removed.
The Community Comes Together
As the cleanup progresses, residents are starting to see some light at the end of the tunnel. The community is coming together, even if it’s just to share their stories of the storm’s impact and the ongoing cleanup efforts. Parents are keeping children out of the way of active areas while also providing support to neighbors, showing that Augusta’s spirit remains strong in the face of adversity.
As the country prepares for upcoming winter weather, there are many reminders about the importance of being prepared for the unexpected. Local experts have shared tips for winterizing homes, ensuring that the community is ready for whatever comes next.
In the meantime, residents are urged to keep an eye out for the cleanup trucks and be patient as the city works tirelessly to clear their streets and restore normalcy.
