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Learn how to prevent frozen water pipes during extreme temperatures. 

About the DPW

Are you a vendor or potential vendor for the DPW? Learn about open bids and other information on the City of Somerville's Procurement and Contracting Services page.

The Department of Public Works (DPW) maintains the City’s infrastructure and guarantees a clean and safe environment for residents, visitors and businesses.  DPW oversees a wide range of operations, including Somerville’s lights and electrical lines, streets and public ways, city-wide vehicle fleet including Police, DPW and all City departments. Other responsibilities include refuse removal, environmental improvement programs, and maintaining public buildings, grounds, parks and playgrounds, snow removal, open spaces, and school custodial services.  

Contact Information
Jill Lathan
DPW Commissioner

Monday - Friday
8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.

Phone

311
(617-666-3311 outside of the City)

Fax Number
Address

1 Franey Rd.
Somerville, MA 02145
United States

Employee Directory

Most Requested Services


Trash & Recycling Collection

Not sure what day you trash is collected? Looking for info on what you can and can't recycle in Somerville? Need to know how to get rid of yard, hazardous or electronic waste? Find all the answers, and more, on the City's trash and recycling info page


Snow Removal

The City of Somerville’s Department of Public Works handles all plowing of streets and City-operated parking lots, as well as the removal of snow from public walkways. Learn more about snowstorms in Somerville and the DPW’s role in cleaning up and keeping travelers safe. 


Report a Problem

To report potholes, broken street lights and other issues in Somerville that need fixing, call 311 (617-666-3311 outside of Somerville). You can also make a service request online. 


Divisions

The Department of Public Works has several divisions, including:

  • Sanitation

    DPW's Sanitation Division keeps Somerville clean through a wide range of initiatives, including waste and recycling pickup, education and outreach, and a wide range of other services. Learn more about the sanitation division and everything it does to keep the City clean.

  • Highway

    The highway division repairs sidewalks, fixes potholes, and plows streets during snowstorms. The division also picks up electronic waste, cleans the City's streets of trash and addresses safety concerns 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Learn more about the DPW Highway Division.

  • Electrical Lights and Lines

    DPW's Electrical Lights and Lines Division maintains and repairs all of Somerville's electrical communication systems, lighting, and utility poles, among other services. Learn more about the Electrical Lights and Lines Division.

  • Grounds

    From seasonal plantings on traffic islands to maintaining dog parks, atheltic fields and playgrounds, the DPW's Ground Division keeps the City of Somerville looking its best. Learn more about the Grounds Division.

  • Buildings

    The Buildings Division ensures that all City buildings and schools are safe, clean, and welcoming to all that enter. Learn more about what the Buildings Division does for the City of Somerville.

Programs & Initiatives

Electronic Waste Recycling Program
It's easy for Somerville residents and businesses to recycle electronic waste responsibly.

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