New Materials Recycling Facility (MRF)
Update (4/29/2025)
CSWD is constructing a new state-of-the-art Materials Recovery Facility (MRF) to sort and prepare blue-bin recyclables for market. This modern facility will replace the existing MRF, built in 1993, which has exceeded its capacity and operational lifespan. The new MRF will be significantly more efficient and effective, offering extensive environmental benefits and ensuring affordable, in-state processing of recyclables for Vermonters for years to come.
The project is estimated to cost $35 million, funded through CSWD reserves, grants, and a $22 million bond approved by Chittenden County voters.
Initially, the facility was to be sited on a parcel owned by CSWD on Redmond Road in Williston. However, during the permitting process in June 2024, the site was deemed too wet for development and the project was put on hold to find an alternative location. CSWD has since acquired a more suitable 38-acre parcel further down Redmond Road, which will serve as the new location for the MRF.
The next steps are to finalize the design and construction documents and secure permits for the new location. Construction is set to begin this fall, with the facility expected to open in the spring of 2027.
Benefits of New MRF
- Modern Technology – Efficiently separates recyclables.
- Increased Capacity – Processes 40% more material, accommodating population growth and weatherproof storage.
- Green Benefits – Reduces greenhouse gas emissions and conserves resources.
- Adaptable Design – Handles evolving packaging trends, ensuring removal of more materials from the waste stream. Maintains current employment levels in an upgraded, environmentally enhanced facility.
- Education Center – Learn about recycling and watch it in action from a viewing platform.
Current vs New MRF Comparison
| CURRENT MRF | NEW MRF | |
| Total square feet | 48,000 | 74,000 |
| Tip floor sq ft | 3,000 | 10,800 |
| Bale storage sq ft | 2,800 | 9,400 |
| Processing rate (tons per hour) | 21-22 | 25+ |
| # of balers | 1 | 2 |
| # of workers | 21 | 21 |
| # of loading bays for outgoing material | 1 | 2 |
| Eddy current (aluminum sorter) | 0 | 1 |
| Optical sorters | 0 | 5 |
| Community/Education Room | No | Yes |
| Public viewing platform for sorting | No | Yes |
Construction Partners
- Design, Permitting & Construction Oversite – AES Northeast with subcontractors: Dubois & King; G. Tim Stone Consulting; Waite Design & Engineering; Krebs & Lansing; VIS Construction Consultants
- Processing Equipment – Bulk Handling Systems (BHS)
- Construction – ReArch Company
Bid Information
No open bids.