Concord says recycling subscriptions recovered; town adds 64‑gallon option and targets December cart wave

Public Works staff updated the commission on the new subscription recycling program and cart deployments.

Staff said the subscription count dipped briefly after the transition but has recovered to about 3,681 subscribers (roughly 700 more than the prior period) and that the town deployed thousands of 35‑ and 96‑gallon carts in October. Because residents asked for a smaller recycling container, staff negotiated with the contractor to add an optional 64‑gallon cart that subscribers may request at no fee; roughly 60 residents had already submitted requests for the midsize exchange.

Staff acknowledged a temporary cart shortage (production delay) and said new carts went into production and the town expects to begin a second wave of deployments with a December target date. Staff noted operational constraints: the automated truck grab arm can reliably handle 64‑ and 96‑gallon recycling carts but cannot handle a 35‑gallon recycling cart on the same equipment. The town also reminded residents that the subscription program is opt‑in and that private hauler options remain available for residents who prefer different service.

What’s next: second‑wave cart deliveries in December, continued customer outreach and an exchange request form on the town website.