Downtown Grand Rapids Inc (DGRI), in partnership with Kent County, has launched a pilot recycling initiative. on the sidewalk along Monroe Center. The bins are placed to collect paper, plastic and other basic recyclable material.

The new infrastructure intentionally varies in type and style to evaluate existing recycling habits and better understand what type of infrastructure best facilitates recycling in the public realm.

DGRI and partners will closely monitor the initiative for one year and, in mid-2019, report findings and recommendations about any future public recycling efforts in Downtown GR.

Downtown Ambassadors Rebecca install new recycling infrastructure on Monroe Center.
Downtown Ambassadors Rebecca install new recycling infrastructure on Monroe Center.

The GR Forward plan prioritizes expanded recycling and waste management infrastructure in Downtown GR. With support from the Downtown Ambassador, DGRI will identify which public recycling receptacles are most effective and assess the feasibility of expanding recycling efforts. All collected recyclables will be managed by the Downtown Ambassadors in partnership with the County.

The pilot recycling program was designed to align with and complement Kent County’s S.O.R.T. program and the effort to reduce landfill waste 90 percent by 2030.

What Can Be Recycled

  • Cardboard
  • Cartons
  • Glass bottles
  • Plastic bottles, jugs & tubs
  • Paper, paperboard & magazines
  • Plastic shopping bags
  • Metal cans & foil

Click here for more information about what happens after your recycling gets dropped off.

Feedback on the pilot is encouraged. Members of the community are invited to provide input to info@downtowngr.org.