Not all of the garbage trucks that take to the streets of New York City collect everyday waste as one might think. Construction happens around the clock there, particularly in Manhattan, so an armada of packer trucks is dispatched to gather just the debris from these job sites. But the waste from grand-scale demolition and remodeling projects must be handled differently from normal trash. 1) Construction debris is heavier in weight (think: concrete, rock, steel, carpet, wood, tile, etc.), demanding the hauling equipment to be built to higher standards. 2) The city's Department of Sanitation estimated that 33,000 tons of C&D waste are collected daily. With no nearby landfills, the waste (which includes dirt/fill) must be recycled or put to new use as much as possible.
Suffice it to say that New York has a rich history when it comes to private refuse haulers, whose industry is still lucrative. NYC permits over 1000 businesses to haul construction waste (alone!) in the city. (For a list of them, see: www.nyc.gov/htm...) With the ever-different collection methods, the heavy duty nature of the work, and much vintage equipment to be found, it was well worth the trip I took with infamous George (georgewuzheer) to the Big Apple in June of this year. Biggest thanks to him for coordinating with haulers, optimizing our use of public transit, and making this a success.
In the summer, this industry's drivers, laborers, and craftsmen work well into the evening. The work is physically taxing and always dangerous; so let this video be a tribute to more than just the equipment that removes construction debris, but the men and women who prepare/handle it. We appreciate how receptive they all were to being on camera.
Now, have just a small look at the fruits of our success!