Indianapolis Launches Community Cleanups to Tackle Illegal Dumping

INDIANAPOLIS, IN — Trash-strewn alleys and illegally dumped waste are getting a citywide response in Indianapolis this summer. In an effort to clean up problem areas, the city’s Department of Business and Neighborhood Services is launching a series of neighborhood cleanup days, targeting locations where illegal dumping is most severe.

The program focuses on parts of the city where the issue is most visible, including many northeast side neighborhoods. But thanks to data tracking, the cleanup crews are being sent exactly where they’re needed most.

“We look at the number of calls we get from the Mayor’s Action Center about illegal dumping and trash,” said Dawn Olson of the city’s business department.
“We use that data to create a heat map, and then pick the worst-hit areas from there.”

Volunteers Step Up to Beautify Their City

The initiative is fueled by passionate volunteers who say they’re proud to help reclaim their neighborhoods. On a recent cleanup day, dozens of residents gathered to remove trash from streets and alleys.

“It’s inspiring and motivating,” said volunteer Lori Waugh. “We love Indianapolis, and when you see it all cleaned up, it just makes you happy to drive through your own community.”

Last year, the city collected 42 tons of garbage during five cleanup events.

Partnerships Make the Effort Stronger

The city has teamed up with Keeping Indianapolis Beautiful (KIB) — a local organization that’s been leading environmental and beautification efforts since the 1970s. KIB’s impact includes:

• 188 tons of litter removed in 2023
• 315 miles of city blocks maintained through its Adopt-a-Block program
• 1,400 active Adopt-a-Block captains across Indianapolis

“It’s amazing to see people picking up litter in areas they may not even live in,” said Marissa Meadows-McDonnell, volunteer coordinator with KIB.
“They build connections, meet neighbors, and feel more attached to the city.”

You can learn more about KIB’s efforts and how to volunteer at kibi.org.

How to Report Dumping or Get Involved

Residents are encouraged to report trash buildup or illegal dumping through the Mayor’s Action Center. You can:

• Call 317-327-4622 during business hours
• Submit a report via the city’s website: indy.gov/agency/mayors-action-center

These neighborhood cleanup events not only make the city cleaner — they’re helping to build stronger, more connected communities.

Tell Us About Your Neighborhood

Has your area in Indianapolis been part of one of these cleanups? Or are you interested in starting a volunteer cleanup in your city?
Share your story or ideas with us at ChicagoMusicGuide.com — we’d love to hear from you!