Harrisburg Last week the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection announced that nearly 200 county and municipal governments will be getting a boost to their recycling and leaf collection programs this year, thanks to $37 million in Recycling Development and Implementation Grants.
“This investment of state funds will significantly bolster local recycling efforts and will make a real difference in protecting our environment,” said State Sen. Judy Schwank. “I commend our local officials for their successful efforts in securing funding through this competitive state program.”
Through the grant program, municipalities and counties in Pennsylvania are eligible for up to 90 percent funding of approved recycling program costs.
“This money is critical in keeping our environment clean and neighborhoods healthy, which are both key components in a successful community,” State Rep. Thomas Caltagirone explained. “I will keep fighting for this type of state funding that ultimately helps families in Berks County.”
Municipalities that are designated financially distressed under the Financial Distressed Communities Act are eligible to receive funding for an additional 10 percent of approved costs. Grants were also awarded based on programs designed to meet current market demands for recyclable goods.
“This funding helps encourage our local government agencies to offer programs that make it easier for residents to recycle and take better care of our environment,” said State Rep. Mark Rozzi. “I’m pleased to see the state award these grants, and I’ll continue to support efforts to promote the importance of recycling in our communities.”
Examples of eligible projects include operating leaf compost facilities; developing web-based programs on recycling for consumers; expanding recycling processing facilities; installing data collection systems on recycling vehicles; continuing and creating curbside recycling programs; and developing educational materials to encourage residents to properly recycle.
Some of the Berks County projects include:
Berks County Solid Waste Authority, $85,545;
Bern Township, $239,292;
Cumru Township, $47,152;
Exeter Township, $248,074;
Kenhorst Borough, $25,974;
Lower Alsace Township, $283,249;
Maxatawmy Township, $32,538;
Muhlenberg Township, $335,619;
Reading City, $349,992;
West Reading Borough, $141,772;
Wyomissing Borough, $122,715.
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