Guidance for Tornado Debris Removal

Guidance for Tornado Debris Removal 

April 5, 2024 - The City of Prospect and Louisville Metro have contracted with Ashbritt, a national disaster recovery and special environmental services contractor, for free curbside tornado debris collection from residents in defined impacted areas.  

Debris collection will begin on Monday, April 15^th to give residents ample time to collect and transport the debris to the curb.  All debris must be placed as close to the roadway as possible within the public right-of-way, in a grass area, not on pavement or in the public roadway, and not in or obstructing drainage ways, fire hydrants, or utility asset access street curb. 

Storm debris MUST be separated into the following categories (click here for a visual guide):

• Vegetative debris 
• Damaged home contents
• Construction & demolition debris.

This curbside pick-up is at no cost to the residents and is for tornado debris only, which includes construction and demolition items, household hazardous waste, electronics, brush, limbs that have fallen from trees or those that present a potential threat to safety. 

April 4, 2024  - Dear Prospect Residents,

As we continue to recover from Tuesday’s tornado, it is important that we stay informed, remain vigilant, and support one another. Please consider the following advice and safety warnings to protect yourself, your loved ones, and your property:

1. Stay Informed:

Follow guidance and directives from Prospect’s police and public works staff.  Please share this communication with your neighbors, as not everyone receives our city emails.  I encourage all residents to sign up for city emails at https://www.prospectky.us/signup .

2.  Debris and Cleanup:

The city is evaluating storm damage and removal of debris.  This morning, we met with Louisville Metro Emergency Services and a disaster recovery contractor to coordinate the cleanup of debris.  The city will soon have more definitive answers for residents on how they can dispose of storm debris. 

Wear protective clothing during cleanup to avoid injuries. Be cautious of hazardous materials like asbestos, lead, and mold, and be extremely cautious while around damaged trees as they may still hold loose and dangerous limbs.  Consider seeking reputable professional assistance for cleanup efforts. 

3.  Rumpke Yard Waste Pickup

In the meantime, on Monday or Tuesday, Rumpke will conduct its regular yard waste pickup.  Rumpke yard waste guidelines are:

• Yard waste must be placed in 30 – 35 gallon paper bags.
• Tree and shrub limbs that are 4” or less in diameter must be bundled in 4-foot lengths and weigh no more than 50 lbs.
• Ordinarily, Rumpke will only pick up 6 six items, bags, bundles, or a combination thereof.  Because of the tornado, Rumpke drivers will, within reason, pick up as much as they can in neighborhoods affected by the tornado.
• Residents who hire tree services should have those services remove the debris that they create.

4. Power Restoration:

Most areas of the city have had their power restored.   There are a few isolated areas that remain without power.  If you are using a gasoline backup generator, make sure it runs outside at least 20 feet from your house and any living space.

5. Mental Health:

It’s normal to feel anxious or overwhelmed. Talk to family, friends, or professionals. Utilize community mental health resources and services.

6. Support Your Neighbors:

If you are able, check on neighbors, especially those who are elderly, disabled, or might need additional assistance.

7. Recovery Assistance:

For those in need of shelter, food, or emergency services, please contact the Kentucky Chapter of the American Red Cross at 1-800-RED-CROSS (1-800-733-2767). They have resources available to assist you.

8. In Conclusion

City Hall is here to serve you!  We are still working on getting answers to some of your questions, particularly regarding the removal of storm debris, and we expect to have those answers soon.  If you have concerns or questions call City Hall at (502) 228-1121, or use this link: https://www.prospectky.us/home/webforms/contact-us

As always, if you want to get in touch with me, you can text, email, or call me.

Thanks, Doug