Elk Point residents will soon see changes to recycling and garbage collection services as the Town also prepares for spring cleanup activities and weighs the future of a damaged pedestrian bridge.

Council discussed several public works and community maintenance items during its May 11 meeting, with much of the conversation focused on infrastructure, neighbourhood upkeep and upcoming service changes.

Recycling and garbage changes coming this fall

Administration updated council on Alberta’s upcoming Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) recycling program, which is expected to launch locally on Oct. 1.

The changes are expected to include:

• Bi-weekly recycling pickup
• Unlimited recycling bag collection
• A possible clear bag garbage system
• Single-stream recycling at the transfer station

Council also confirmed that household garbage pickup will switch to Wednesdays beginning June 3 as part of the Town’s transition to contracted waste collection services.

Additional public information is expected to be released as rollout dates approach.

Spring cleanup underway

Council also discussed the Town’s annual spring cleanup efforts, including community participation and ongoing concerns about unsightly properties following the winter season.

Cleanup initiatives this year include:

• Community cleanup activities
• Alley cleanup work
• Free transfer station access during designated periods
• Volunteer participation

Administration noted that warning letters may be issued in some cases where properties are not maintained.

Council emphasized the importance of community pride and improving the appearance of neighbourhoods heading into summer.

Pedestrian bridge replacement still under review

Another topic discussed was the future of a damaged pedestrian bridge on Circle Drive.

Council heard mixed feedback from nearby residents about whether the bridge should be replaced, with some concerns raised about youth gathering in the area and questions about how heavily the bridge is currently used.

Rather than immediately proceeding with replacement, council discussed surveying nearby residents before making a final decision.

There was also discussion about potentially redirecting funding toward upgrades on another bridge within the community if that would provide greater overall benefit.

No final decision has been made regarding the bridge replacement.