Free rodent-proof garbage cans are now available for all Prospect Heights residents, thanks to Council Member Letitia James and Forest City Ratner. The heavy-duty, plastic cans with lids are approved by the Department of Health.

In June, residents complained of a rat problem around the Atlantic Yards construction area, at a meeting organized by the Dean Street Block Association and Councilwoman James.

“We don’t have a normal rat problem, we have a rat tsunami,” said one resident at the June meeting. “I can look out in the middle of the day and see my trash cans outside my window overflowing with rats.”

Forest City Ratner first offered free trash cans to residents back in August, as part of a “rodent control strategy.”

The trash cans are now available to all residents and business owners within Prospect Heights. They can be picked up at the office of Council Member James, 67 Hanson Place, between 9:30 a.m. and 5:30 p.m.

Bring an I.D. and proof of address when picking up, and call (718) 260-9191 to confirm availability.