Debris Removal Underway in Oklahoma City, Mulhall, and Choctaw; Stroud Set for Thursday 

Release Date: May 12, 1999
Release Number: 1272-06

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OKLAHOMA CITY, Okla. -- The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers' massive debris removal operation began today in Oklahoma City, Mulhall and Choctaw. Debris removal in Stroud begins Thursday, May 13. Seven debris removal crews hit the streets initially, and more will join the operation Thursday and Friday. Additional pickups will be scheduled until all the debris is removed.

Specific routes in these areas will be determined by local officials. The operation will remove debris from public property and rights of way, and individuals can dispose of their debris by placing it along the right of way. The contractors will not be responsible for picking up regular household trash and garbage.

Tom Logsdon, the Corps' on-site manager for the project, expressed concern that some owners mistakenly fear that bulldozers will come on their property and bulldoze their damaged homes. "No debris removal crews contracted to the Corps can go on private property without authorization from Local officials," he said. "That's why we've provided for debris removal along public rights of way if individuals place it there."

Logsdon added that other homeowners are worried that their debris is so massive that they are unable to move it to a right of way without hiring moving equipment. He said that in many cases insurance will cover these costs, but that federal, state and local officials are working out solutions to the problem of debris removal from private property. "For now, property owners should contact local officials and voluntary organizations helping with debris removal from private property," he said.

Last Modified: Wednesday, 17-Dec-2003 18:03:33