Philadelphia Trash Pickup Resumes After Weeklong Strike Ending Major Disruptions

After weeklong strikes disrupted garbage collection services, both Richmond, California, and Philadelphia have resumed trash pickups, much to the relief of residents. In Richmond, Republic Services ended its strike, restoring garbage collection while recycling and green waste services remain suspended; residents can also drop off limited amounts of garbage at a local transfer station. Philadelphia's strike by sanitation workers, members of District Council 33, concluded following a tentative contract agreement that includes a 14% wage increase over four years, pending ratification by union members. The strike had caused significant disruptions including overflowing trash, water department service delays, and closures of pools and recreation centers. Philadelphia Mayor Cherelle Parker emphasized the contract as a fair investment in employees while maintaining fiscal responsibility. Both cities are now working to restore normalcy to public sanitation services after these labor disputes.