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Record number drop off old paint, chemicals, electronics in Tampa

Tribune photo by SCOTT ISKOWITZ

City of Tampa collects household chemicals and electronics Saturday during a semi-annual event. This was the first time it was held off of Bird Street in Tampa.

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TBO.com

Published: April 25, 2009

TAMPA - A record number of people turned up today to dispose of their old paint, household chemicals and electronics at a parking lot staffed by the city's Solid Waste Department.

About 300 vehicles poured into the empty lot on the south side of Bird Street within the first hour of the collection so city workers could dispose of the items properly, said Tonja Brickhouse, the department's director.

Other collections have drawn about 300 to 500 vehicles total, Brickhouse said.

Today's was the first held at a location other than the department's headquarters at 4010 W. Spruce St., Brickhouse said. Residents in the past had complimented the department for providing the service but expressed frustration about long lines and traffic backup.

The lot on Bird Street, right by the exit ramp for Interstate 275, allowed crews to separate motorists into lines for dropping off solely electronics, solely chemicals or a mix.

Brickhouse said the department's next collection day for chemicals and electronics is scheduled for October 24. However, officials might add another collection date depending on the tonnage collected today.

For more recycling information, visit www.tampagov.net/dept_solid_waste/.

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