<b>Changes In Recycling Program for Lexington Residents</B>

The Urban County Government has planned changes in its recycling programs over the next four years. The new system is aimed at making recovering for recycling easier.

The new program will feature commingled collection, with all materials except glass being combined into one container. Recycling carts will be replaced with 65-gallon carts that have one compartment for glass. Contamination due to glass is why the material is being separated.

"The reasons for changing the process for recycling is because studies have shown that recycling rates significantly increase when the separation requirements are decreased," says Steve Feese, recycling coordinator for the city.

The first step in changing the program will be implementing a $5.5 million expansion of the recycling facility that will enhance separation techniques and will accommodate the commingled collection. The new facility will be able to process 31,000 tons of materials a year.

About 10,000 carts will be converted each year and the recycling center expansion is expected to be completed in Spring 2001. Implementation will be gradual, over a four-year period.