Access to recycling services in the Ozarks could get easier with a new center in Springfield

SPRINGFIELD, Mo. (KY3) – Springfield is set to get a new recycling center after the City Council recently approved a resolution requesting a $5 million grant to fund a new drop-off facility.

The biggest obstacle to recycling is distance. Having a new center in a different part of the city could provide better access for people wanting to get into recycling.

According to City of Springfield studies, 70 percent of materials sent to the landfill could have been recycled. These studies also indicate that citizens are generally not willing to travel more than 2.5 miles to access recycling services.

“I was taught to recycle a long, long time ago. My mom actually taught us growing up in Marshfield, so it was a situation that would be a little remote if you will, but we learned how to do it,” said recycler Ken Childers.

“Our staff is working to identify underserved areas here in Springfield where our residents face barriers to accessing convenient recycling options,” Ashley Krug, Springfield Environmental Services Coordinator, said during a recent city council meeting.

We should know by July 2025 if we will get the $5 million to fund a new recycling center.

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