Rapid City officials will review plans this week for using a nearly $5 million federal grant aimed at expanding and improving the city’s recycling program.

Public Works Director Mike Theis is scheduled to provide an update during meetings of the City Council’s Public Works Committee and Legal and Finance Committee on the city’s proposed use of a $4,977,265 Solid Waste Infrastructure for Recycling grant awarded by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Rapid City was one of only 17 recipients nationwide to receive the funding after applying for the competitive grant in December 2024.

Theis said city staff have been developing a strategy since learning of the award and believe the proposed plan will strengthen the community’s recycling efforts. He said the funding will allow the city to continue diverting recyclable materials from the landfill, helping extend the landfill’s lifespan while improving recycling services for residents and businesses.

If approved by the Rapid City Council at its July 6 meeting, the grant would be used to expand recycling opportunities for commercial customers, reduce contamination in recyclable materials, increase the types and amount of cardboard accepted, continue regional recycling efforts beyond Rapid City and enhance public education about recycling.

The city must notify the EPA in July whether it intends to accept the grant award.

The Public Works Committee will meet Tuesday, followed by the Legal and Finance Committee on Wednesday. Both meetings begin at 12:30 p.m. in the Rapid City Council Chambers and are open to the public.