Monroe County ecopark marked 15 years after serving more than 500,000 visitors

Monroe County ecopark marked 15 years after serving more than 500,000 visitors Erin Mahon News10NBC ROCHESTER, N.Y. — Monroe County ecopark celebrated its 15th anniversary Friday, marking a milestone for the recycling center that has served more than 500,000 people since opening in 2011. Increased use over the years The center was created in response to the community’s need for more recycling options, especially for items that cannot go in curbside bins like electronics and chemicals. Since then, residents have recycled 8 million pounds of electronic waste, 4,000 tons of hazardous waste such as paint and gasoline, and about 100,000 pounds of medication. “As ecopark has grown in popularity, we’ve strived to ensure it meets the needs of our residents. By introducing new partners and expanding the items accepted, we continue to provide residents with an easy way to dispose of materials, while simultaneously protecting our environment and conserving natural resources,” County Executive Adam Bello said. The center also accepts 19,000 tires and 700,000 pounds of documents, and has added new technology features like an interactive map to direct people to other recycling locations. An Alexa app helps people confirm what items they can recycle. Operating hours remain Despite its popularity, ecopark’s hours remain limited to Wednesdays from 1 to 6:30 p.m. and Saturdays from 7:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. The center is closed on holidays and will be closed the Saturday after Thanksgiving this year. Many of the county employees who work at ecopark also have other jobs in environmental compliance and treatment, which limits the ability to expand hours. “Many of the county employees, virtually all the county employees that work here, have other jobs in environmental compliance and environmental treatment. So we have a very efficient operation, but it’s a balance between resources and the demand from the community. But we are constantly evaluating how to make it easier for residents,” Michael Garland, director of environmental services, said. For those looking to avoid long lines, the center recommends coming after 3 p.m. on Wednesdays and before 10 a.m. on Saturdays. Garland also pointed to the center’s interactive map online that can point people in the direction of other recycling facilities to ensure they find an alternative in the event that they cannot make ecopark’s hours. Click here for the interactive map: ecopark Interactive Map Appointments are required for hazardous waste only and can be made through the ecopark website. While most items are free to recycle, fees may be charged for certain items, including tires and appliances with refrigerant. Visit the ecopark website: ecopark