EPA announced that two local governments in Region 8 will receive more than $8.3 million through the Solid Waste Infrastructure for Recycling program, a federal initiative aimed at strengthening post-consumer materials management and creating more resilient recycling systems across the country. The funding will support large-scale improvements in recycling and organics management for communities in Utah and South Dakota, reinforcing the agency’s push to pair environmental innovation with economic development.
EPA selected the Wasatch Integrated Waste Management District in Utah to receive over $3.4 million, while Rapid City, South Dakota, was awarded more than $4.9 million. The agency says these investments reflect growing momentum among local governments to modernize waste handling systems and expand programs that increase diversion rates, improve material quality, and help reduce pressure on landfills.
“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 and proving that environmental protection and economic growth go hand-in-hand.” His statement underscores the agency’s broader approach of linking environmental outcomes with regional job creation and long-term community benefits.
Lawmakers from both states applauded the announcement, emphasizing how federal support will help local leaders scale up existing efforts. “I’m grateful EPA has chosen Rapid City to receive this SWIFR grant funding,” said U.S. Representative Dusty Johnson (R-SD-AL). “This will help Rapid City continue to provide quality waste management to its residents and keep South Dakota clean.” Rapid City officials plan to use the funding to launch a new commercial recycling program and upgrade equipment, allowing the city to double its recycling rates while improving the consistency and quality of collected materials.
Utah’s grant funding will support a major expansion of composting and organics management. “I am grateful for the EPA’s commitment to empowering local governments like Davis County to lead with innovation in all aspects – even our waste,” said U.S. Representative Blake Moore (R-UT-01). “This grant will help the Wasatch Integrated Waste Management District invest in our community through enhanced compost education and collection, and I look forward to seeing this grant’s positive impact throughout Davis County.” The Wasatch Integrated Waste Management District plans to expand its compost facility, provide curbside organics receptacles for city partners, and roll out new public education efforts aimed at increasing participation in composting and recycling programs.
Rapid City and the Wasatch Integrated Waste Management District are two of just 17 local governments selected nationwide to receive funding through the SWIFR grants for political subdivisions program. Demand for support was high, with more than 300 local governments applying for a share of the $58 million available. According to EPA, the SWIFR program helps communities upgrade aging systems, adopt new technologies, and build out the infrastructure necessary to handle growing volumes of recyclable and organic materials. The agency maintains that these investments not only support environmental goals but also play a critical role in boosting local economies and creating opportunities for innovation in waste management.
Learn more about SWIFR grants for political subdivisions and view the full list of selectees on EPA’s SWIFR website.
