CHICAGO – Mayor Rahm Emanuel today joined Department of Streets and Sanitation (DSS) Commissioner Charles L. Williams to check in on the status of the City’s graffiti removal program. This year, Chicago has seen a 17 percent reduction in resident graffiti complaints over last year, which DSS attributes to swift graffiti removals under the grid model and additional resources like new blaster trucks.

“Under the more efficient grid model powered by additional resources and crews, DSS has created a more efficient graffiti removal system - in many cases, graffiti is removed before residents even have a chance to report it," said Mayor Emanuel. “From tree trimming, to snow plowing, to rodent abatement, and much more, Chicago continues to strengthen neighborhood services by getting work done more efficiently and more effectively."

DSS uses a grid-based graffiti removal system, which enables crews to complete five wards every day. As compared to last year, DSS has reported 17 percent fewer graffiti removal calls. The Department has completed over 57,000 graffiti removals citywide so far this year and crews continue to respond to requests within five business days or less. Prior to the grid model, crews would respond to calls within 10 days.
 
“The grid system has helped the Department improve its operations in everything from garbage to graffiti.  This system allows crews to quickly remove markings, which serves as a significant deterrent for future vandals,” said Commissioner Williams. "With Mayor Emanuel's constant support, we are able to try new strategies to ensure that we are providing the most competent and cost-effective services possible to our residents.”
 
In May, DSS also announced that eight new chemical trucks had been added to the City’s graffiti removal fleet. The Department also redirected three new crews to help tackle graffiti thanks to efficiencies realized through grid refuse collection.

Graffiti removal is a free service offered by the City of Chicago.  The graffiti program works with aldermen, community groups, block clubs, chambers of commerce and residents to respond to reports of graffiti.  Residents who would like to report graffiti can call 311, or visit www.cityofchicago.org/dss.

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