SALT LAKE CITY – Salt Lake City has begun what will be a long cleanup effort as individuals and the City deal with the aftermath of Monday and Tuesday’s hurricane-force windstorm. Hundreds of City-owned and privately-owned trees were toppled by the winds, causing extensive property damage and street closures. 

“Our hearts go out to the many residents whose homes, vehicles, and communities were damaged in the storm,” said Salt Lake City Mayor Erin Mendenhall. “All areas of the City were impacted, and we’re working hard to spread our resources across neighborhoods. We have a big job ahead of us as we begin to dig out from the debris.”

City crews are focusing their initial cleanup push on trees blocking sidewalks, roads and bike lanes. Once those are cut and removed, the City will clear all downed City-owned trees before moving on to hauling away private downed trees and debris homeowners have moved from their property to the curb. Bulk green waste collection times and schedules will be announced in the coming days.

“We are asking that residents not place storm debris from private property in the street just yet,” said Lorna Vogt, Director of the City’s Public Services Department. “City crews will be scheduling routes throughout the City to clear private property debris as soon as possible, but with such a high volume of debris, it will take time.” 

City leaders understand there are many residents who are unable to clear large, heavy debris from their property on their own. The City has partnered with United Way’s 2-1-1, to link people who need help with volunteers who want and are able to help. Those needing assistance should call 2-1-1, beginning Thursday, for help. 

Individuals interested in volunteering can contact Utah’s National Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster, and fill out this form: https://utahvoad.org/find-a-partner-program.

Residents are encouraged to take bulk green waste resulting from the storm to the County landfill in the coming days, though they should be advised wait times may be long. The County has waived drop fees for residents driving regular-sized pickup trucks and smaller vehicles. This fee waiver does not include loads brought by businesses or individuals performing cleanup for a fee. 

“This is unlike anything we’ve seen before in Salt Lake City,” said the City’s Urban Forester Tony Gliot. “Our urban forest took a big hit, and it’s hard to see so many big, beautiful trees lying on their sides. Once our cleanup effort is complete, we will turn our attention to the important work of replanting.”

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