Waste management program featuring locked bins launching in downtown Windsor

Locking garbage bins downtown The city is introducing lockable garbage cans as part of a pilot program to 'curb the trash'. CTV Windsor's Bob Bellacicco explains.

A new waste management program featuring locked garbage bins is launching in downtown Windsor as part of the Strengthen the Core initiative.

The City of Windsor and the Downtown Windsor Business Improvement Association (DWBIA) are hoping it will provide a significant advancement in the downtown cleanup.

Through the Strengthen the Core: Downtown Windsor Revitalization Plan, a one-year pilot program has been launched to equip businesses participating in the DWBIA’s “Curb the Trash” program with cutting-edge lockable rollout carts at no additional costs.

This pilot program aims to tackle downtown litter and enhance safety.

“With these innovative rollout carts, we’re addressing longstanding concerns around downtown litter and safety while supporting businesses in presenting a cleaner, more welcoming environment,” said Windsor Mayor Drew Dilkens

The new 95-gallon bins are designed with gravity-lock technology, making them easy to use and secure against tampering. Locked bins prevent scavenging and waste spills while an automated unlocking mechanism ensures smooth collection and relocking, keeping streets clean and hassle-free, with improved rodent control measures in place.

For participating businesses, the rollout carts mean less time spent managing messes and a more professional storefront experience for customers and visitors.

City officials hope residents will notice cleaner streets, with less debris from scavenging, improving the overall look and feel of the downtown neighbourhood.

“Cleaner streets mean a safer, more attractive, and thriving downtown that benefits and welcomes everyone, from established and new business owners to families enjoying a day out. This latest Strengthen the Core initiative builds on our efforts to create and sustain a downtown that attracts new residents, businesses, investments and visitors to the core,” said Ward 3 councillor Renaldo Agostino.

The program is launching immediately and is part of Windsor’s broader vision for improved livability and sustainability.

Businesses already enrolled in the DWBIA’s “Curb the Trash” lock program are encouraged to register now by contacting the DWBIA to receive their free rollout carts. On-site education will accompany delivery to help businesses maximize the carts’ effectiveness.

“This initiative directly addresses the concerns of our members. With these innovative bins, downtown businesses can focus on serving their customers while playing an active role in creating a cleaner, more attractive core,” said DWBIA chair Chris MacLeod.

The pilot program includes ongoing support and evaluation, with plans to assess its success into 2025.