Bronx residents can breathe easier now that the city has drastically cut truck traffic by transporting trash by railroad.

The city recently signed a $1 billion, 20-year contract with Waste Management of New York after the City Council adopted Mayor Michael Bloomberg's plan. The change is part of Bloomberg's vision for a healthier New York City.

Under the plan, about 2,100 tons of Bronx trash is being taken to the Harlem River Yard daily. The waste is then placed on rail cars to be shipped out of state.

Previously, trucks hauled the trash out of state. The city says the move means trucks will travel 5.7 million fewer miles on city streets, which means less pollution will be generated.