MITCHELL, SD (Mitchell Now) — Rapid City is set to receive more than $4.9 million in federal funding after being selected by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency for a Solid Waste Infrastructure for Recycling (SWIFR) grant.
The EPA announced that two local governments in Region 8 were chosen for the funding, totaling more than $8.3 million. Along with Rapid City, the Wasatch Integrated Waste Management District in Utah will receive more than $3.4 million.
EPA officials say the grants are designed to improve post-consumer materials management and strengthen local recycling infrastructure.
“I am proud to announce Region 8’s selectees of the Solid Waste Infrastructure for Recycling grants, emphasizing our commitment to fostering local economic growth,” said EPA Regional Administrator Cyrus Western. “By empowering local governments with the resources they need, we are enhancing recycling infrastructure while creating valuable jobs.”
Rapid City plans to use the funding to launch a new commercial recycling program and upgrade recycling equipment. City officials say the improvements are expected to double recycling rates and improve the quality of materials collected.
U.S. Rep. Dusty Johnson, R-South Dakota, praised the selection.
“This will help Rapid City continue to provide quality waste management to its residents and keep South Dakota clean,” Johnson said.
Rapid City is among 17 local governments nationwide selected for SWIFR grants under the political subdivisions program. More than 300 communities applied for a share of $58 million in available funding.
More information about the grant program is available on the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s SWIFR website.
