Litter pickup in Covington continues into winter | News

COVINGTON, KY (FOX19) - Colder temperatures and the nearing official end to fall have not stopped the Urban Partnership of Covington’s clean and safe initiative.

From April 1, when the program began through November 30, crews removed 45,965 pounds, or nearly 23 tons, of litter and eradicated 518 instances of graffiti.

Partnership Executive Director Pat Frew says some of the activities of the crews will alter as the effort begins to enter its first Winter season of operation.  “We have winterized the power washing equipment so you won’t see any of that activity for the next five months.  We do plan to shovel sidewalks at street corners at crosswalks.  And during the precipitation-free periods, you will see us continuing litter pickup and graffiti removal.”

Frew added that the Partnership is hoping to add a second motorized litter suction device to compliment the existing so-called “billy goat.”  The clean and safe program has been funded by local foundation and business donations and is being offered on a trial basis as a demonstration of services that could be offered as part of a business improvement district.

The Partnership is hoping to ask property owners in 2012 to consider funding services through an affordable assessment.  Details of that proposal have not yet been determined.  Donations continue to be accepted to fund the litter program and can be sent directly to the Urban Partnership, 50 E. RiverCenter Blvd., Suite 160, Covington, KY  41011 or by calling 859-431-1500.