Several local governments are getting a boost for recycling and waste management projects through the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s Solid Waste Infrastructure for Recycling program, also known as SWIFR.

Kansas City, Missouri: $5 million for organics and composting

EPA announced it selected Kansas City, Missouri to receive a $5,000,000 SWIFR grant. The city plans to use the funding to expand recycling infrastructure and strengthen waste management systems, with a major focus on organics.

EPA said Kansas City will use the grant to purchase trucks and build out infrastructure to support its organic waste collection and diversion program. The plan also includes improvements tied to composting and food rescue efforts, along with expanded collection and partnerships intended to redirect food waste to food banks.

Maui County: $3.6 million for West Maui collection centers

A few days earlier, EPA announced Maui County was selected for a $3,607,065 SWIFR grant to establish the first waste collection centers on the west side of the island. EPA said the project is expected to divert at least 1,794 tons of materials each year from landfills and dump sites.

According to EPA, Maui County plans to acquire two parcels and develop two collection centers designed to accept green waste, recyclables, and large and bulky items. The materials listed for diversion include common recyclables such as aluminum cans, glass bottles, and cardboard, as well as items that are harder to manage in remote areas, including appliances, scrap metal, auto tires, lead-acid batteries, electronics, and propane tanks.

EPA said the project is intended to address the need for collection options in West Maui communities impacted by the 2023 wildfires, and to reduce illegal dumping.

Region 8: Rapid City and a Utah waste district receive more than $8.3 million combined

EPA announced two Region 8 selections totaling more than $8.3 million in SWIFR grants. The Wasatch Integrated Waste Management District in Utah was selected for more than $3.4 million, and Rapid City, South Dakota was selected for over $4.9 million.

EPA said Rapid City plans to open a new commercial recycling program and update equipment, with the goal of doubling recycling rates and improving the quality of materials collected. For the Wasatch Integrated Waste Management District, EPA said the grant will support expanding a compost facility, providing curbside organics collection receptacles for local cities, and adding education and outreach to increase participation.

EPA noted that Rapid City and the Wasatch district are among 17 local governments selected for SWIFR grants in the political subdivisions category. The agency said more than 300 local governments applied for $58 million in funding under that program.

EPA describes SWIFR as a grant program aimed at improving post-consumer materials management and recycling infrastructure. The agency says funds can be used to establish or improve collection systems, invest in infrastructure and technology, support markets for recycled commodities, and increase the diversion and quality of materials collected in municipal solid waste systems.