KALAMAZOO, Mich. — Nearly two weeks after powerful storms swept through West Michigan, cleanup efforts continue in Kalamazoo and Ottawa counties as city crews launch a curbside debris pickup program.
On Tuesday, Kalamazoo’s public works crews began collecting downed trees, branches, and limbs from neighborhoods impacted by the May 15 storm. Heavy equipment has been seen removing large piles of debris, particularly in the city’s Northside neighborhood, which experienced significant wind damage.
Residents like Carl Roberts described the storm’s intensity firsthand. “When the storm came through, I had just got home,” Roberts recalled. “I looked out the door and everything was black with a roaring noise I’d never heard before.” He took shelter in his basement as high winds snapped trees around his home.
James Baker, Kalamazoo’s Public Services Director, urged residents to place storm debris at the curb while ensuring sidewalks, driveways, and streets remain clear for pickup and traffic. “Kalamazoo has 22 neighborhoods, and we saw impacts in nearly every one,” Baker said. “From a wide area perspective, that’s a lot of work. This region seems to be experiencing a lot of serious storms lately.”
To organize the cleanup, the city has designated three pickup zones:
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Area B pickup started Tuesday, May 27
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Area C pickup begins Monday, June 2
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Area A pickup will start Monday, June 9
Residents have expressed gratitude as streets begin to return to normal, though many acknowledge the cleanup will take time. “It’s gonna take a little while, and we just have to be patient,” Roberts said. “We understand it’s going to take a minute to get it all cleaned up.”
Those living outside Kalamazoo are advised to check with their local city or township offices regarding debris removal options.
