WILLISTON, VT — The Chittenden Solid Waste District (CSWD) has officially broken ground on a new, state-of-the-art Materials Recycling Facility (MRF) in Williston—a timely milestone that comes just days before America Recycles Day on November 15. The $38 million project marks a major step forward in CSWD’s commitment to building a sustainable recycling future.
The new MRF will replace CSWD’s existing facility, built in 1993, which has exceeded its operational lifespan and processing capacity. Designed with efficiency and sustainability in mind, the upgraded facility will significantly improve processing capabilities, reduce environmental impact, and ensure the continued affordability of recycling services for Vermonters for decades to come.
“This groundbreaking is more than just the start of a construction project—it’s a commitment to Vermont’s recycling future,” said Sarah Reeves, Executive Director at CSWD. “As we celebrate America Recycles Day, this new facility represents the innovation and collaboration that keep Vermont a leader in environmental responsibility.”
The project is being funded through a combination of CSWD reserves, grants, and a $22 million bond approved by Chittenden County voters.
“This project is a true testament to Chittenden County voters’ vision and support,” Paul Ruess, Chair, CSWD Board of Commissioners. “The new Materials Recycling Facility will not only increase efficiency and capacity, but also serve as an educational hub, showing our community how recycling helps protect our environment for generations to come.”
The new 74,000 square foot facility will feature advanced technology and sustainable design elements that expand capacity and improve performance:
- Modern Technology – Efficiently separates recyclables using the latest sorting and processing systems.
- Increased Capacity – Processes up to 40% more material, accommodating population growth and allowing for weatherproof storage of recyclables.
- Green Benefits – Reduces greenhouse gas emissions and conserves valuable natural resources.
- Adaptable Design – Built to handle evolving packaging trends and remove more materials from the waste stream. Maintains current employment levels in an upgraded, environmentally enhanced facility.
- Education Center – A dedicated space where visitors can learn about recycling and watch the process in action from a public viewing platform.
“This new facility represents the next generation of recycling in Vermont,” Reeves said. “With cutting-edge technology and a flexible design, we’ll be able to recover more materials, reduce contamination, and process recyclables more efficiently than ever before. It’s an investment in modern infrastructure that ensures Vermont is prepared for the future.”
Initially, the new MRF was planned for a CSWD-owned parcel on Redmond Road in Williston. However, during the permitting process in June 2024, the site was deemed too wet for development. CSWD subsequently purchased a more suitable 38-acre parcel further down Redmond Road, which will serve as the new location for the facility.
Construction is now underway, with the facility expected to open in January 2027. For more information about this facility, visit cswd.net.
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The Chittenden Solid Waste District (CSWD) is a municipality created by our member Towns and Cities to manage the solid waste generated within Chittenden County in an environmentally sound, efficient, effective and economical manner.
Media Contact:
Beth Parent
Communications and Outreach Manager
802-578-2776