Kansas City Expanding Curb Collection Program

The second phase of the curbside recyclables collection program for Kansas City’, Mo., began June 1. The first phase of the program began March 1. That phase covered roughly one sixth of the city.

The second phase of the collection program will include an additional one sixth of the city. Phase 3 will begin Sept. 1 and include another one third of the city, while Phase 4 will begin Dec. 1 with the final one third of the city.

 “With the success of Phase 1 behind us, we look forward to bringing curbside recycling to residents in Phase 2 of the program,” John Stufflebean, director of the Department of Environmental Management, said. “Bridging the Gap has been conducting informational presentations in the Phase 2 neighborhoods, and reports positive feedback from the residents,” Stufflebean said. Bridging the Gap is a non-profit organization under contract with the City to lead the RecycleFIRST neighborhood educational outreach effort.

The total amount of recyclable material collected was 194,660 pounds in Cycle 1 and 318,429 pounds in Cycle 6. Stufflebean said this amount is better than expected and steadily increasing. He said participation has been exceptional, with an average of about 50 percent of houses participating.

Kansas City’s recycling contractor, Deffenbaugh, reports that the recycling materials are very clean and free of contaminants. The most common mistake residents are making when preparing their recyclables is including plastic grocery bags that are not accepted in the program.