Department of Public Works

Spring/Summer 2023 Updates

Trash Delays: All trash, recycling, and compost collection will be delayed by one day during the week of June 19 (Juneteenth). All collection on Tuesday, July 4 (Fourth of July) will be delayed by one day. However, collection on Monday, July 3 will occur as normal.

School Street Paving: School Street will be repaved with new sidewalks this spring as the final part of the extensive water main replacement work completed last summer. 

The work will start at the central street side and progress north up School St. and will include sidewalks first followed by roadway milling, castings, some reconstruction and final paving. Detours and road blocks will occur at times. The project is expected to be completed by mid June. Please contact the DPW office with questions.

Transfer Station Closed Wednesdays: The Transfer Station will be closed on Wednesdays until further notice while construction continues on the new compost facility. Residents can still visit the Transfer Station on Saturdays from 10 AM to 3 PM.  

Missed Trash/Recycling/Compost: Please call Republic (formerly JRM) at 1-800-323-4285  to report missed trash/recycling pickupsPlease call Black Earth at 978-290-4610 to report missed compost pickups.

Bulk item pick up: Please call Republic to schedule bulk item pickup: 1-800-323-4285.

Compost Site:  The Compost Site on School Street is open Thursday, Saturday, and Sunday 9 AM -3 PM. Learn what you can bring here.

Mission Statement

The Public Works Department’s provides and maintains public services necessary for the continued growth and improvement of the quality of life for the citizens of Manchester-by-the-Sea. 

The Department of Public Works Divisions:

Click here for an overview of the Department of Public Works.

Frequently Asked Questions

DPW FAQ

Why do we flush hydrants? Routine flushing is an essential part of keeping water quality high and hydrants operationally ready when needed. 

During the flushing process, the water can become discolored and residents may wish to avoid washing clothes during this time.  If discoloration appears in the water at your faucet, run cold water for a few minutes and it should clear.  

Power Outages and Downed Wires

For power outage updates or to report downed trees in wires, please call National Grid directly: 1-800-322-3223 or on your mobile device at: www.ngrid.com/mobile or text: STORM to 64743 or online at www.nationalgridus.com/outagecentral Please note, this link is only active during storms.

National Grid Presentation December 2021