The City of Poughkeepsie has introduced a new automated garbage and recycling truck, known as the One-Armed Bandit, in an effort to improve waste collection efficiency and safety. The city is conducting a pilot program with this truck in selected neighborhoods.
The collection schedule for the One-Armed Bandit is organized by area. On Mondays, the truck serves the North Side Route, which includes Winnikee, Thompson, Lent, Harrison, Smith, Fitchett, Corlies, and other arterial streets. Tuesdays are designated for Recycle Section 7 around Hooker and Cherry. Wednesdays are reserved for scheduled service of the truck. Thursdays cover arterials such as Upper Northside, Taylor Avenue, and Washington Street. Fridays are set aside for Recycle Section 4 including Adriance, Ferris, Beechwood, Oakwood, Parkwood, Miller Hill, and nearby streets.
Residents who receive service from this truck are asked to follow certain guidelines to ensure reliable collection. They should place cans curbside in an unobstructed area with at least one foot of space between each can. Cans must face the street with barcodes visible at the front. All garbage should be bagged before being placed inside cans; only items inside the cans will be collected.
The city also advises residents not to leave bags outside of cans or block cans with vehicles or other obstacles.
City officials say that expansion of automated collection services is under consideration. As more trucks become available and routing improves, additional neighborhoods may be included in the program.
“Updates will be shared as expansion plans are finalized,” according to city representatives.
For questions about pickup schedules or placement instructions or information about future expansions of this service, residents can contact the City of Poughkeepsie Department of Public Works at 845-451-4111.
