City of Windsor and DWBIA Strengthen the Core With Launch of Innovative Waste Management Program
The City of Windsor, in collaboration with the Downtown Windsor Business Improvement Association (DWBIA), has provided a significant advancement in downtown waste management. Through the Strengthen the Core: (STC) Downtown Windsor Revitalization Plan, a one-year pilot program has been launched to equip businesses participating in the DWBIA’s “Curb the Trash” program with cutting-edge lockable rollout carts at no additional costs. This pilot program aims to tackle downtown litter and enhance safety, supporting the City’s ongoing efforts to create a cleaner and more welcoming core.
The new 95-gallon bins are designed with state-of-the-art gravity-lock technology, making them easy to use and secure against tampering. Locked bins prevent scavenging and waste spills while an automated unlocking mechanism ensures smooth collection and relocking, keeping streets clean and hassle-free, with improved rodent control measures in place.
For participating businesses, the rollout carts mean less time spent managing messes and a more professional storefront experience for customers and visitors. Residents will notice cleaner streets, with less debris from scavenging, improving the overall look and feel of the downtown neighbourhood.
The program is launching immediately and is part of Windsor’s broader vision for improved livability and sustainability. Businesses already enrolled in the DWBIA’s “Curb the Trash” lock program are encouraged to register now by contacting the DWBIA to receive their free rollout carts. On-site education will accompany delivery to help businesses maximize the carts’ effectiveness.
The pilot program includes ongoing support and evaluation, with plans to assess its success into 2025. This collaborative initiative between the City, the DWBIA, and local businesses underscores a shared commitment to making downtown Windsor a cleaner, greener, and more inviting place.
Quotes:
“This is another forward-thinking initiative in downtown Windsor that reflects the collective efforts of the City, the Downtown Windsor BIA, and area businesses and stakeholders to Strengthen the Core. With these innovative rollout carts, we’re addressing longstanding concerns around downtown litter and safety while supporting businesses in presenting a cleaner, more welcoming environment. Just as decorative lighting draws people together and enhances the vibrancy of our core, this program ensures our streets are not only more attractive but also safer for residents, visitors, and business owners alike.”
- Windsor Mayor Drew Dilkens
“Cleaner streets mean a safer, more attractive, and thriving downtown that benefits and welcomes everyone, from established and new business owners to families enjoying a day out. This latest Strengthen the Core initiative builds on our efforts to create and sustain a downtown that attracts new residents, businesses, investments and visitors to the core.”
- Councillor Renaldo Agostino, Ward 3
“This initiative directly addresses the concerns of our members. With these innovative bins, downtown businesses can focus on serving their customers while playing an active role in creating a cleaner, more attractive core.”
- Chris MacLeod, Chair, DWBIA
“This program is a game-changer for downtown Windsor. By providing businesses with secure, efficient waste management tools, we’re reducing litter while also, more importantly, enhancing safety.”
- Jim Leether, Manager of Environmental Services, City of Windsor
“As a downtown business, this program is a win-win for us and the community. The new rollout carts not only make waste management easier and more secure but also contribute to a cleaner, safer environment for everyone. It’s encouraging to see the City and the DWBIA actively addressing these issues, and we’re proud to be part of an initiative that improves our neighbourhood while benefiting our business.”
- Sam Kim, owner of Café March 21
To learn more about the Strengthen the Core: Downtown Windsor Revitalization Plan, visit letstalk.citywindsor.ca/strengthen-the-core.