PORTLAND
— In an attempt to curb illegal dumping in Bayside, the city has gated a self-serve recycling center on Somerset Street.

The “silver bullet” recycling containers have been in their current location for two years, and were previously on Marginal Way. Public Services Director Mike Bobinsky said that in recent years, people have been leaving furniture, electronics and other non-recyclable items at the containers.

“The Department of Public Services has been spending excessive time and effort in cleaning up the silver bullet site on a daily basis,” Bobinsky said. “The site has become an eyesore for what otherwise is an outstanding location and element of our strong commitment toward community recycling.”

A swinging gate was installed in August so the city can close off vehicle access to the recycling area at night. Bobinsky said the city is developing a schedule for when the gate will be open. Most likely, he said, vehicle access will be available during normal business hours and on Saturdays. 

Pedestrian access is still available during all hours, and any Portland resident can bring their recycling to the containers. Public Services has installed a sign informing people that the site is open for walk-in traffic when the gate is closed. 

“Often what occurs is large trucks or pickups from not necessarily Portland arrive after hours and drop off non-legitimate items,” Bobinsky said.

The city is particularly concerned about dumping on the weekends, and Bobinsky said the gate may be locked all day on Sundays.

 

 

 

 

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