New Blackstone Trash and Recycling Bins Rolling Out Ahead of Schedule
If you’ve spotted large, shiny new totes in driveways around town, you’re not imagining things — Blackstone trash and recycling bins have started arriving ahead of schedule.
The Board of Health originally planned to complete the rollout by September 1, but deliveries are already underway, and residents can start using their bins right away. This upgrade is part of a long-term plan to make curbside waste collection cleaner, safer, and more efficient for the entire community.
Deliveries have been running smoothly, but there have been a few mix-ups. Some Millville residents living near the Blackstone border accidentally received totes. Those residents contacted the Board of Health, and the situation was resolved quickly. “Thank you to those who reached out,” said Colleen Strapponi, Health Agent, during the August 12 Board of Health meeting.
What’s Changing at the Curb
Every household in Blackstone will receive two free 96-gallon rolling totes:
- One for trash – black lid
- One for recyclables – blue lid
Each tote is clearly marked on the lid so you know exactly what it’s for. These will replace your current barrels and small bins. Once the new system begins, all curbside waste must fit inside the provided totes — no loose items or bags left outside will be collected.
Addressing a Common Question About Trash Limits
Some residents have expressed concerns about the new system reducing trash limits. In fact, the original trash collection guidelines on the Board of Health website already set a three (30-gallon) barrel limit or one 90-gallon toter limit — so this is not a new restriction. The 50-pound maximum per bag or barrel also remains the same.
Guidelines for Using Your New Blackstone Trash and Recycling Bins
1. Keep bins closed
The lids must be fully closed on collection day to ensure proper pickup. Overfilled bins may not be serviced.
2. Collection times
Trash and recycling should be set out at the curb by 7 a.m. on your scheduled collection day.
3. Handling extra waste
- Extra trash: Bring to the Recycling Center (14 Chestnut St.) for $3 per bag.
- Extra recycling: Bring to the Recycling Center for free.
Recycling Center Hours
- Summer Schedule (Apr 15 – Dec 31): Tues, Thurs, Sat — 8 a.m. to Noon
- Winter Schedule (Jan 1 – Mar 31): Sat only — 8 a.m. to Noon
A sticker is required for Recycling Center use, but there is no sticker fee for Blackstone residents.
4. Multi-unit properties
Property owners with four or more units will no longer receive curbside pickup due to higher collection costs and increased waste tonnage from these buildings.
Additional Important Information About Your New Bins
- Ownership: The new totes remain the property of Republic Services. The town, nor the residents do not own these containers, so please do not place your street number, name, or any permanent markings on them.
- Missing Bins? If you have not yet received your trash or recycling tote, please contact the Blackstone Board of Health right away to report it.
Why This Matters for Blackstone
This early rollout shows the town’s commitment to improving waste management and keeping our streets cleaner. Blackstone trash and recycling bins are designed for convenience, efficiency, and a more organized curbside collection — helping our town look its best while keeping service standards consistent with what’s been in place for years.
Need More Info?
Contact the Blackstone Board of Health at 508-876-5130.
At Small Town Post, our mission is to keep Blackstone and Millville informed, connected, and inspired. Updates like the arrival of the Blackstone trash and recycling bins are just one way we help you stay in the know about changes that affect daily life. Have a tip, story idea, or local update? We’d love to hear from you anytime — your input helps us share the stories that matter most. Follow us on Facebook for regular news, event coverage, and updates from across our community.
