Albuquerque Investing $33M in Refuse Trucks

The City of Albuquerque is rolling out an aggressive vehicle replacement plan for its refuse fleet to add 397 vehicles over a 10-year period, the city announced.

The city's Solid Waste Management Department is adding the new vehicles to create "a safer, updated, and more sustainable fleet of collection vehicles," according to a city release. The plan has the backing of Mayor Richard Berry.

During the first phase of the plan, the city will invest $33.48 million of five years for 219 vehicles, including 41 automated side loaders, 29 front loaders and 30 rear loaders. The city will also purchase 119 vehicles, including eight rear loaders, 61 heavy and specialty equipment pieces, and 50 light vehicles.

Over the second five years, the city will purchase another 178 vehicles to bring the total to 397.

"We have a motto here at City Hall to keep people safe, and help them succeed," said Mayor Berry. "That is why it is important we invest in equipment that helps our employees do their jobs well, but also ensures their safety and wellbeing."

A properly maintained fleet provides safe equipment for employees to operate, helping to reduce the number of workman compensation claims that are filed each year, reduced emissions and fuel consumption, according to the release.