Future Metro West recycling and transfer center

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Metro is looking for a site to build a new, state-of-the-art center for the collection of waste and recycling in Washington County.

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Garbage trucks dump their loads at the North Transfer Station in Seattle

A modern facility

The future recycling and transfer center will be designed with many state-of-the-art features found in modern facilities like the North Transfer Station in Seattle, Washington. This station was designed with sustainability in mind, with features to improve safety, reduce energy demand and minimize noise, dust and odors. Photo: courtesy of King County Solid Waste Division

Building a community asset

The new facility will be more than a place to collect waste, it will be an asset to the people of the region. The community’s input will inform the design of the facility so that its features will provide the greatest community benefits. These could include community gathering places, public art, an education space, a reuse store, or bicycle and pedestrian pathways. Photo: courtesy of King County Solid Waste Division

staff at Metro Central Household Hazardous Waste sort through items dropped off for safe disposal

Expanding access to services

A new facility serving the west side of the region would make it more convenient for people to drop off bulky items, food scraps and recyclable or reusable materials. It would also provide a safe place to bring hazardous wastes that are a danger to human health and the environment.

The people of the region throw away 2.4 million tons of garbage each year. Much of this waste goes to a transfer station where it gets sorted before being sent to its final destination.

These sites take in waste from commercial companies as well as materials from private residents who need to safely dispose of bulky items or wastes that are harmful to people and the environment.

For the people who live and work in Washington County, it is difficult to access the transfer stations in Oregon City and Northwest Portland. Metro is planning to improve the garbage and recycling system by locating and building a new, state-of-the-art facility. A potential site has been identified in Cornelius and the Metro Council will decide whether to purchase it by the end of 2020.

But first we need to hear from you. What would a modern waste facility look like to you? How could this large investment benefit your community? Your input will shape what comes next for the Metro West recycling and transfer center.

News

Grounds for exploration: Improving greater Portland’s garbage and recycling services

By Faith Cathcart
Aug. 13, 2020 12:30 p.m.

Metro tests the ground and talks with community members as it considers a possible location for a new recycling and transfer center in Cornelius.
Metro Council adopts 2030 Regional Waste Plan

By Faith Cathcart
March 7, 2019 2:30 p.m.

Metro Council voted today to approve a plan that will shape the way greater Portland manages the garbage and recycling system for the next 12 years – including everything from the way products are made to how to shape jobs in the industry.
Рассмотрение предложенного "Регионального плана по утилизации и переработке отходов" 2030

By Faith Cathcart
Feb. 22, 2019 12:22 p.m.

В четверг, 28 февраля, совет Metro рассмотрит возможность принятия представленного "Регионального плана по утилизации и переработке отходов" 2030 г. Этот проект представляет собой план того, на что в ближайшие 12 лет будут направлены усилия и ресурсы Metro, местных органов управления и всех, кто участвует в организации утилизации и переработки отходов.
El Consejo considerará la propuesta del plan regional para desechos para 2030

By Faith Cathcart
Feb. 22, 2019 12:22 p.m.

El jueves, 28 de febrero el Consejo de Metro considerará la adopción del plan regional para desechos para 2030. El plan es la guía de cómo centrarán sus esfuerzos y recursos Metro, los gobiernos locales y otros involucrados en el sistema de gestión de basura y reciclaje de la zona conurbada de Portland, en los próximos 12 años.
Council to consider proposed 2030 Regional Waste Plan

By Faith Cathcart
Feb. 22, 2019 12:20 p.m.

On Thursday, February 28, the Metro Council will consider adoption of the proposed 2030 Regional Waste Plan. The plan is the blueprint for how Metro, local governments and others involved in managing greater Portland’s garbage and recycling system will focus efforts and resources in the coming 12 years. It is the final opportunity for public comment before the plan goes up for a Council vote.