Progreso launched a new program for residents to drop off scrap metal for free.

The city placed a container next to Progreso City Hall. It accepts steel, aluminum, and copper, as well as appliances like stoves, refrigerators, washers, and dryers.

Officials are asking residents to check in with staff before dropping off items.

"Any type of debris really causes issues with the canal as far as the flooding and stuff like that," Progreso City Manager Ben Arjona said. "There's been some calls saying that they need to dispose a refrigerator, and before we didn't have the service, but now that we have it, just bring them over; we'll help you dispose of it."

The city plans to keep the container available as long as needed. Officials hope to eventually build a full recycling center in the future.