The City of Battle Creek announced on April 30 that a citywide storm debris cleanup will begin the week of May 11, following strong winds and downed trees caused by a storm on April 27.
The announcement is important for residents who experienced property damage and blocked streets, as it outlines the process for clearing public roads and collecting storm-related yard waste. The phased cleanup aims to restore safety and accessibility throughout the city.
According to the city’s statement, crews started clearing streets and removing immediate hazards on April 27. This initial phase focuses on reopening roads affected by fallen trees and limbs. As of April 29, Betz Road near 12875, Hubbard Avenue at Waubascon Street, and School Street remained closed due to downed trees and power lines.
Beginning the week of May 11, residents are invited to place tree limbs and brush from the storm at their curb or lawn edge for collection. The city noted that only one pass will be made through each neighborhood, so residents should prepare their debris accordingly. Stumps, construction materials, non-storm-related items, or debris from private property will not be collected by crews.
For ongoing needs beyond this special collection period, Battle Creek continues its unlimited yard waste pickup program year-round within city limits. Accepted materials include leaves, grass clippings, organic yard waste, branches no larger than four inches in diameter or four feet in length—each bag or bin must weigh no more than fifty pounds. Residents can use a rented cart from Republic Services; personal bins with a visible yard waste sticker (available free at City Hall or Public Works); or biodegradable paper bags filled properly.
City officials thanked residents for preparing their curbside offerings as part of efforts to restore safe passage across Battle Creek.
