Pathway to
a Sustainable
Lewiston
Pathway to a Sustainable Lewiston is a comprehensive, multi-phase program designed to automate and modernize waste management in Lewiston, NY.
Phase 1
Revamped Recycling
Modern will be overhauling the current recycling program for the town of Lewiston. We will be providing all customers (including residents of Tuscarora Nation) with recycling carts to replace the open-top bins that have been used to date. The goal of this overhaul is to improve both the overall rate of recycling and the throughput of recycling (i.e. more AND more effective recycling), while allowing for a more efficient service schedule spread across a five-day weekly period.
1. Introduction of New Carts
During the week of 1/29/24 residents will receive new 96-gallon recycling carts, with a smaller size available for those requiring lighter-weight options.
Think you want a smaller size? Call Modern now (800) 330-7107
Benefits
- Eliminate blowing trash from open-top containers
- Control vermin issues
- Wheeled carts for easy transport
2. Service Day Change
To increase route efficiency and improve our ability to be responsive we will introduce a new collection schedule for trash and recycling. Instead of the entire town of Lewiston being serviced on Mondays, we will spread service out over 5 days each week.
Benefits
- Enhanced efficiency of service
- Reduced impact on community
- Fewer collection vehicles in use (reducing carbon footprint)
- Allows for collection from entire community including Tuscarora Nation
3. Phase 1 FAQ
While we are confident that the new recycling carts and service day changes are ultimately the best thing for the ongoing success of the Lewiston community, we also understand that change can initially be uncomfortable for people. Below please find several of the key questions that have surfaced in our initial outreach and our responses.
Do I have to use the new cart or is this optional?
Upon the start of Phase 1, all recycling will only be accepted in the new cart. Modern will be deploying new collection vehicles that are designed to work exclusively with these carts for maximized efficiency and minimized environmental impact. Additionally, the sturdy carts feature securely closing lids to help eliminate blowing trash and discourage animals from creating a mess.
How do I get this cart and what does it cost?
Modern will be delivering new carts at no charge during the week of 01/29/24. For residents who would like additional carts please contact Modern to make arrangements. Any carts that are damaged through normal wear or an act of collection will be replaced free of charge.
A 96-gallon cart is way too big for me. Are there any options?
We know that the diverse population of Lewiston will have different needs. For anyone that feels that the 96-gallon cart is too large or heavy, we are offering a much more compact 65-gallon cart. Both versions of the cart are equipped with sturdy wheels and a firm grip handle for safe and easy placement at the curb on collection day.
Contact Modern at (800) 330-7107 to make arrangements for a smaller container.
I can’t fit everything in my cart. What should I do?
The 96-gallon carts are designed to be large enough to hold almost 200 pounds of material. That being said, if you have a bulky or odd-sized object, or a particularly high volume of recycling in any given week, we will not be able to pick anything up that is not in the cart. In Phase 2 of the Pathway program, we will be expanding access to the Modern Community Recycling Center and introducing a bulk trash/recycling concierge service.
Does the recycling cart belong to the resident or stay with the property?
All carts stay with the property. They do not belong to the resident and are not to be taken away from the property. If someone moves to a new property and the previous owner did not leave the cart, that person should contact Modern directly at (800) 330-7107.
Are residents receiving both trash and recycling carts?
In Phase 1, residents will only receive a new recycling cart. At this time, all other trash and waste collection will remain the same. Later on (specifically in Phase 3), Modern will introduce new trash carts for automated trash collection.
Are there any special instructions for the carts?
All recycling carts should be placed within 6 feet of the road by no later than 6am on the resident’s scheduled collection day. The cart should also be no closer than 3 feet away from any other trash bins. Please follow the markings on the cart and ensure that the arrows are facing the correct way to ensure that the machine arm is able to operate effectively.
A 96-gallon cart is not enough space for me. What should I do?
Modern will be supplying each residence with a single cart. Should an additional cart be required for regular high-volume recycling, please contact Modern at (800) 330-7107 to make arrangements.
Even a 65-gallon cart is too much for me. What should I do?
If your concern is simply that you won’t fill the container, we recommend adopting a bi-weekly schedule. Residents that believe they will be unable to manage a cart are encouraged to contact Modern directly at (800) 330-7107. We will consider garage-side service on a case-by-case basis.
I already purchased a cart. Do I receive a credit?
At this time, we are unable to offer backdated credit for the small number of residents who may have already acquired one of the new recycling carts.
I know my service day is changing, but am I still able to recycle weekly?
Yes! Modern will continue to provide weekly recycling and trash collection services.
Can I leave bags placed to the side of my cart?
For the automated recycling collection to work at peak efficiency, all recycling must be placed inside the container. In upcoming Phases, we will be offering new solutions to manage excess recycling. If your residence regularly creates a higher recycling volume than can fit in one cart please contact Modern at (800) 330-7107 to arrange for an additional cart at no extra cost.
What if the cart is damaged or stolen - will I receive a replacement or have to purchase a new one?
If a cart is damaged through the course of normal collection services, Modern will replace it at no charge. If a cart is damaged by neglect or stolen, a one-time replacement fee will be issued. Please contact Modern directly at (800) 330-7107 with any questions or to make arrangements for a replacement.
What date will the carts be delivered? Will they take my old tote?
New carts will be delivered during the week of 1/29/24. If you wish to get rid of your old recycling bin please place it upside down next to your new cart on your first new collection day the following week.
Is my collection day changing?
Yes. Direct mail and text communication will be sent to update you on your new service day. You can opt in to email and SMS communication by filling out the sign-up form below. You can also see your new service day by submitting your address into our finder below.
Phase 2
Bulk Trash Concierge Service
At Modern, we understand that every resident can and will have unique trash situations from time to time. Perhaps they’ve undertaken a spring cleaning or remodeled a bathroom or bought some new furniture, creating an excess of bulk trash that simply doesn’t fit in traditional containers. In an effort to streamline services and avoid unsightly piles of trash, we will be implementing an overhauled bulk trash service that is underpinned by three core objectives:
- Expansion of the Modern Community Recycling Center - Increase drop-off availability to 7 days/week
- Increase in Universal Waste Management Service - Drop-off service for electronics, batteries, mercury-containing equipment, pesticides, lamps, and aerosol cans
- Bulk Trash Concierge Service - Scheduled bulk trash pickup with assistance
Phase 3
Automated Trash Collection
Phase 3 continues the path towards the most modern, efficient waste collection management service available with the introduction of automated trash collection. Similar to the recycling initiative from Phase 1, Modern will provide 96-gallon trash carts to each residence. Additionally, we will be upgrading our automated fleet to utilize Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) which will lead to quieter vehicles, reduction in emissions, and a full-circle green solution that maximizes our commitment to green service.
Phase 4
Organic Collection Services
A truly sustainable, modern waste collection service should include recycling, trash, and organic collection. The final phase of the Pathway to a Sustainable Lewiston program introduces a voluntary food waste and composting program. Modern will utilize dedicated organic receptacles, specialized collection vehicles, in-house composting capability, and innovative partnerships with digester facilities to create a truly sustainable end-to-end green organic waste management system.
Phase 1
Your Service Day is Changing
- There’s a typo in your input or it doesn’t match the database formatting. Please try again with just your house number and street name (i.e. 123 Aberdeen).
- You are not in the service area affected by the Pathway program. Please click here to fill out the contact form and a member of the Modern team will confirm your address and respond with further information.
General Pathway FAQ
What is automated collection?
Automated collection (for both trash and recycling) is a system that utilizes specialized trucks with a mechanical arm controlled from inside the cab by a driver using a joystick. This arm is able to lift the specially designed carts and dump the contents into the truck.
How is automated collection beneficial?
The use of carts for trash and recycling is a major factor in helping to eliminate unsightly trash piles, blowing refuse, and vermin issues in our community. Furthermore, the automated collection of trash and recycling improves safety (for residents and Modern workers alike), increases service efficiency, and helps reduce environmental impact.
How does this impact Modern employees?
Each automated truck only requires one driver to operate the machine arm. However, at Modern we are committed to ensuring that every member of our team is given the opportunity to take on another role in the company and/or receive free CDL training in order to develop the necessary skills to remain on a route.
What is the timeline for each Pathway program phase?
Currently, we are planning to implement and launch Phase 1 within Q1 2024. Additional information is available in Phase 1 section of this site. As other timelines are finalized, they will be communicated via updates to this website and other communication touch-points.
Is the monthly rate changing?
The Pathway program has no added cost to residents. We are committed to upgrading and automating waste and recycling services in Lewiston because it’s what’s best for our community.
How are residents being educated on the Pathway to a Sustainable Lewiston program?
We anticipate presenting the Pathway plan to the community at a future public meeting and answering all questions live at that moment. Additionally, we have established this website, mailed educational materials, and launched several digital campaigns to increase awareness and address potential challenges.
Should you have any additional questions not addressed on this website please contact Modern directly at (800) 330-7107.