Rat Prevention Initiatives in Dense Residential Areas
Status: In Progress
Original Proposal
This proposal aims to tackle rodent infestations in identified hotspots by improving waste management practices and reducing food access for rats.
By investing in rodent-proof waste storage solutions in high-density residential areas, food sources for rodents can be limited where they are most problematic. The City will use sensor technology to monitor the effectiveness of these upgrades and expand successful solutions.
This initiative supports the newly launched Boston Rodent Action Plan, which aims to reduce the rodent population and improve residents' quality of life.
Budget Breakdown
Total Budget: $500,000
Spent/Committed:
Remaining: $500,000
Implementation and Impact
-
The Inspectional Services Department, Public Works, and the Boston Housing Authority (BHA) will expand a successful rat prevention pilot from Charlestown to two BHA’s developments in Brighton, one of the neighborhoods most impacted by rodents. This program is aiming to mitigate rodent activity by:
- Upgrading existing residential trash collection service to commercial level service;
-
Installing metroSTOR trash, recycling and compost bins;
- Providing in unit trash, recycling compost containers, and education for 665 units; and,
- Buying and installing MicroShare Sensors to test the effectiveness of this pilot.
Status Update
-
Trial Period and Further Installations: In May 2026, the Inspectional Services Department, Public Works, and the Boston Housing Authority (BHA) worked with the containerization vendor, metroSTOR, to install two containers (1x trash and 1x recycle), for the resident trial period at BHA Commonwealth. This trial was very successful! After incorporating feedback from residents and staff, as well as engineering advancements from metroSTOR, the remaining containers are set to begin installation starting January 2027.
-
Haulage Service: On May 20 2026, the new haulage vendor, Republic, commenced their commercial collection, providing regular pickup and maintaining a clean, rodent-controlled environment during the initial 3-month trial, with potential extension. Before confirming this expansion, Republic will be submitting feedback on the trial period.
-
Resident Feedback: A formal survey has been distributed to BHA residents to submit feedback prior to the final designs being installed. On September 21 2026, there will be a resident task force meeting to discuss any commentary in person.
