Back in December, Raleigh Transportation launched its first-ever right-of-way mulch program. The new mulch truck helps crews maintain landscaped areas across the city while making the work faster, safer, and more efficient.
Six months later, the results are already impressive.
Since the program began, crews have applied about 2,760 cubic yards of mulch throughout Raleigh. That's equal to more than 38,000 bags of mulch you might buy at a home improvement store. Even better, the mulch is produced locally at the City's Yard Waste Center using recycled yard waste collected from Raleigh residents. It's a great example of turning a community resource into something that benefits the entire city.
So far, crews have completed work at 12 locations across the city, including Glenwood Avenue, Creedmoor Road, Raleigh Boulevard, New Bern Avenue, Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard, Western Boulevard, and South Saunders Street.
"The truck has exceeded our expectations," said Greg Tant, Right of Way Landscape Superintendent. "It allows our crews to work more efficiently while improving the appearance of some of Raleigh's largest landscaped areas."
The truck has been especially helpful in large natural areas, along hillsides, and on embankments. Instead of carrying mulch by hand, crews can use a 300-foot hose to place mulch exactly where it's needed.
The truck also helps save staff time. It only takes a three-person crew to operate, allowing other employees to focus on additional maintenance work throughout the city. According to Greg, the crews have quickly become fans of the new equipment. "The crews love the truck," he said. "It helps us get more work done and allows us to use our staff on other projects."
Residents have noticed the difference, too. While crews are often working along busy roads, they've received plenty of thumbs-up, waves, and supportive horn honks from passing drivers.
The fresh mulch does more than improve appearance. It helps hold moisture in the soil, reduces weeds, prevents erosion, and supports healthier landscapes throughout Raleigh.
There's still more work to do before the first season wraps up. In the coming months, crews will continue work along Tryon Road, Falls of Neuse Road, Millbrook Road, Leesville Road, and several interchanges.
"Our goal is to finish mulching all City-maintained landscape areas by the end of the year," said Greg.
After that, Raleigh Transportation plans to divide the city into sections and rotate work on a two-year cycle. This approach will help keep landscapes looking their best while allowing crews to focus on other important maintenance projects.
Help Us Name the Truck!
Our new mulch truck has spent the last several months helping keep Raleigh beautiful. Now it needs a name!
We're asking residents to submit their best, funniest, and most creative ideas. Finalists will be selected and shared for a public vote before a winning name is chosen.
Have a great idea? We'd love to hear it.
Name Our Truck Feedback Form
