Bicyclists have been downtown a long time, but signs asking drivers to "share the road" just recently started popping up.

The business of trash pickup has been messy for local politicians charged with awarding solid-waste collection contracts for the city this year. Complaints from constituents and trash haulers have littered the bidding process: Some Richmond County residents slated to receive city service have said they'd rather stick with their private hauler; several haulers have taken issue with prices quoted by the low bidder.

Tim Coakley, the assistant director for the city of Aiken's Department of Public Works, removes litter along Chukker Creek Road as part of the city's effort to keep roadways clean.