Accumulated dirt allows grass and weeds to grow into the pavement.  The roots of the plants work their way through the pavement, causing it to crack or break into pieces.  Water can then get under the pavement and cause premature failure of the street.

Trash and debris that covers the curb and goes into the street causes a number of problems:  it allows dirt to accumulate on the street which allows grass and weeds to grow into the pavement, it allows weeds and grass to spread from the yard to the street, and it blocks the flow of water.  All of these things contribute to deterioration of the street pavement.

Water can damage pavement. Curbs protect pavement by channeling runoff. It is important to minimize curb blockage so that water can drain freely off of the street.

Keep your grass edged so that it doesn't grow into the street. Sweep up the grass clippings and either throw them in the trash or put them on your lawn. Clear out any growth between the concrete and the asphalt pavement. Sweep up any dirt (and put it back on your lawn) so that weeds don't have a chance to grow.

Stack yard waste and bulky trash on the frontage during your setout period, but keep it off of the curb and pavement. By keeping the curb clear of obstructions, you help to prevent grass and weeds from growing into the pavement and you help water to run off of the street or curb and into the storm sewer.

When you keep your curbs and gutters clean, you help to keep water off of the pavement and out of the base material. This helps to extend the life of the street.