Earlier this week, the Buckeye City Council approved a resolution allowing the Public Works Department (BPW) to apply for a $766,365 grant to buy two new PM-10 Certified Street Sweepers. BPW will apply through the Maricopa Association of Governments (MAG) for fiscal year 2025.
The grant request includes $698,976 in federal funding, with the city contributing $67,389. The funds will replace an old sweeper nearing the end of its life and add a new one for the city’s growing road network.
The current sweeper, now nine years old, requires frequent maintenance. Last year, repairs cost $114,968, and it was out of service 62% of the time. The new sweepers will clear debris from arterial, collector, and residential roads. They will reduce harmful PM-10 and improve air quality in Buckeye.
This investment will increase BPW's fleet to ten sweepers. The added equipment will improve street cleaning coverage and reliability as Buckeye grows. Selling a previously decommissioned sweeper will provide $23,108.51 of the funding, reducing the city’s financial burden.
The grant application will now proceed. If successful, the award agreement will be presented to the council for final approval. This decision shows Buckeye's commitment to keeping streets clean and improving residents' environmental health.
What is a PM-10 Sweeper?
A PM-10 Certified Street Sweeper is designed to reduce particulate matter of 10 micrometers or smaller (PM-10) on paved roads. Certified under standards like the South Coast Air Quality Management District Rule 1186, these sweepers lower PM-10 levels that vehicles kick up into the air.
Compared to conventional sweepers, PM-10 sweepers reduce dust and silt more effectively. After sweeping, they reduce street silt load to about 14% of its original level, while conventional sweepers reduce it to about 45%. This helps keep streets cleaner and improves air quality, especially in high-traffic areas.
Benefits of New Sweepers for Buckeye
The new PM-10 sweepers will help Buckeye handle its growing population and road network. Improved street cleaning will enhance safety, reduce pollution, and create a cleaner environment.
