Detroit Calls On Residents To Help Clean City's Alleys

DETROIT, MI — Detroit is calling on its residents to help clean 500 alleys by the end of 2020 and is offering paid positions to those interested in helping.

The city launched its alley cleaning program in 2020. The pilot program is on pace to clean 500 alleys by the end of the year. So far, 29 alleys have been cleaned, officials said. The city announced Friday that the overwhelmingly positive response from residents has created more opportunity for Detroiters who would like to help beautify neighborhoods through work as a paid member of the cleanup crew.

“The alley cleanup program was a direct response to what we’ve heard from residents for years,” Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan said. “We’ve heard the continual requests to get the alleys cleaned up. Not only are we listening; we’re acting, but we can't do this work alone. Together with registered block clubs across the city, and any Detroiter that wants to help get the work done, we can get this city cleaned up, one alley at a time.”

Detroit vacated alleys decades ago, meaning alleys have since become the responsibility of the adjacent homeowners. The new program provides residents with city assistance to clean up overgrown alleys in exchange for a commitment from residents for ongoing maintenance and cleanup.

The work performed by city cleanup crews includes complete removal of everything in the alley, including debris removal and tree and brush trimming, the city said. Some light grading work is also being done to ensure alleys are leveled and passable. Gates are expected to be made available next year.

Since the program's inception 549 tons of debris has been cleared and 391 tires along with 523 trees have been removed from city alleys, according to the city.

Paid positions available for city residents
The city is looking to hire at least 20 additional Detroit residents interested in performing alley cleanup duties. There are several positions available, with pay ranging from $13 to $20 per hour.

Partnerships with Registered Block Clubs
A major component of the alley cleanup program is its partnership with registered block clubs and neighborhood associations. The city said it will only select alleys submitted by those groups registered with the Department of Neighborhoods.

Once an alley has been selected and cleaned, the block club must commit to maintaining the alley by performing additional cleanups, at least twice per year.