Trash Complaints Up 120% at Parks throughout New York

An increase in visitors across New York City's public parks has also brought about a deluge of garbage.

Trash complaints have risen across the five boroughs as residents flock to city greenspaces during the pandemic. Mitchell Silver, Parks Department commissioner, pointed to reductions in park staff as the city estimates a $9 billion budget deficit because of the virus.

Because of this shortfall, the Parks Department is looking to a public service announcement and campaign aimed at reminding New Yorkers to pick up and dispose of waste.

The newly-launched "Toss Your Trash" initiative "will feature signs at bus shelters, grocery stores, and, of course, park entrances to help remind New Yorkers of their responsibility."

NYC Parks Department has seen a 120% increase in complaints regarding trash as officials have slashed an additional $84 million of the department's budget. Council members and borough presidents have organized efforts to assist with cleanup around the city.

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