Automated Trash Pickup Program in Coventry Launching May 12

Coventry officials will launch a new automated trash pickup program May 12.

It will happen in the Harris and North Wood Estates neighborhoods. A truck with a mechanical arm operated by the driver will pick up 1,100 trash carts distributed to residents. Proponents say it's faster than have a worker manually dump the carts and saves money.

"We anticipate seeing an increase in revenues from recycling, reduced disposal costs and a reduction in sanitation driver injuries” said Town Manager Thomas Hoover in a statement.

Hoover added if the program is successful, it could be expanded townwide.

A demonstration of the process can be seen in the video above.