Keeping Hopewell Beautiful

November 3, 2022 | Published by Julie Buchanan

Hopewell Citizens Convenience Center Supervisor Bobby Parker and Interim Public Works Director Monique Robertson.

Hopewell’s citywide cleanups are going strong after more than 25 years.

Coordinated by Keep Hopewell Beautiful and the city’s Public Works Department, the week-long events are meant to encourage residents to spruce up around their homes and streets every spring and fall.

The fall cleanup was Oct. 15-22.

“The citywide cleanups are a great opportunity for us to rebaseline,” said Devin Clinevell, chair of Keep Hopewell Beautiful. “It’s good throughout the year to clean up certain areas, especially around highway ramps, so that litter doesn’t get out of hand.”

During the cleanups, Hopewell’s Citizens Convenience Center extends hours and waives fees so that residents may easily dispose of bulky items, brush and tires.

The center took in 270 loads of residential waste, 168 loads of brush, 46 tires and six air conditioning or refrigeration units during the week.

“This is a great benefit to the citizens, and many people look forward to the cleanups,” said Monique Robertson, Interim Director of Hopewell Public Works and a member of the CVWMA Board of Directors.

Hopewell’s Citizens Convenience Center waives entrance fees for residents during the citywide cleanups.

Firestone Complete Auto Care at Cavalier Square Shopping Center also participates by collecting used tires for the cleanup. Manager Sarah Boyd estimates the store took in about 50 this fall.

“We’re always looking for ways to be green,” Boyd said. “We take used oil, tires and batteries year-round for recycling.”

Keep Hopewell Beautiful volunteers are reactivating after the pandemic caused a slowdown. Yard of the Month contests, student art competitions and neighborhood cleanups are on the horizon, as are projects with the Fort Lee community.

Engaging with local businesses is another goal, especially through the Adopt-A-Street program, Clinevell said.

Recommendations for cleanup spots may be submitted to Keep Hopewell Beautiful on Facebook.

Leaf vacuuming service

Hopewell’s leaf vacuuming service is available in November, December and January. Residents aged 62 and up or those who with a disability may receive the first vacuum free. Second and third vacuums are $5 each. For more information, see the city’s leaf disposal flyer or call Public Works at 804-541-2295.

Category: Hopewell