Storm debris removal in Gallatin, TN made efficient after ice storm

Gallatin's Public Works Department is making remarkable strides in storm debris removal following January's severe ice storm. Since initiating collection on February 5, crews have cleared 7,550 cubic yards of brush across 642 loads, surpassing the total volume collected after the 2023 tornado event. On a single day, they managed 100 loads totaling 1,170 cubic yards. Trucks are operating at an impressive 89% capacity per load, aligning with FEMA guidelines.

 

City teams have covered nearly 50% of Gallatin on their first pass, with multiple rounds planned to ensure all neighborhoods are cleared. As residents continue placing storm debris at the curb, completion percentages may fluctuate as collection progresses. Public Works Superintendent Richard DePriest remarked, "This is the most storm debris I've seen in my seven years here. It's like a tornado went through the entire city."

 

All debris is transported to the city's temporary collection site on Steam Plant Road, where loads are documented, photographed, and organized for processing. Residents are encouraged to continue placing brush at the curb for pickup and to remain patient as crews systematically work across the city.

 

In neighboring Nashville, the Department of Transportation and Multimodal Infrastructure (NDOT) began county-wide residential storm-related vegetation debris collections on February 3. Crews are conducting multiple collection cycles throughout the county, with no size restrictions for these collections. Residents are advised to bring all vegetation to the curb, as NDOT crews aim to reach all areas within two to three weeks, weather permitting.

 

The Tennessee Emergency Management Agency (TEMA) announced that FEMA has approved debris removal assistance for seven Tennessee counties affected by the recent winter storm. This assistance covers eligible costs related to debris removal undertaken to eliminate immediate threats to lives, public health, and safety. While Sumner County, where Gallatin is located, is not listed among the counties receiving this assistance, local efforts continue to address the extensive storm debris.

 

Residents are reminded to place only yard debris, such as fallen or cut trees and limbs, at the curb for collection. No trash, construction debris, or other household items will be collected. Debris should not block fire hydrants, storm drains, drainage ditches, culverts, alleys, sidewalks, bike lanes, car travel lanes, or other essential infrastructure. For those unable to move debris to the curb, resources are available through local community organizations and nonprofits.

 

As cleanup efforts continue, residents are encouraged to document any damage to their property, save receipts for disaster-related expenses, and contact their insurance companies. Staying informed through official city channels will ensure residents receive the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding storm debris collection and other recovery efforts.