Grand Junction will transition 3,800 residents to single-stream recycling starting in March 2026, ahead of a new regional Materials Recovery Facility set to open in late 2026. The move simplifies recycling and supports expanded Western Slope processing capacity.
The City of Grand Junction is moving forward with a major modernization of its recycling system, announcing a transition from dual-stream to single-stream recycling beginning in March 2026.
The change marks the first phase of a broader regional effort tied to the construction of a new Materials Recovery Facility (MRF), scheduled to open in late 2026.
To support expanded recycling capacity across the Western Slope, the City has purchased a 58,000-square-foot building on approximately 10 acres off 32 Road. The site will be developed into a state-of-the-art Materials Recovery Facility designed to improve sorting efficiency, increase recovery rates, and strengthen regional recycling partnerships.
The project received a record $9.82 million grant from the Colorado Circular Communities (C3) Program. Funding will help purchase advanced sorting equipment and cover initial operating expenses. Once operational, the facility will process materials collected by City vehicles and provide capacity for recycling haulers throughout the region.
City leaders say the facility will position Grand Junction as a key recycling hub for the Western Slope.
Beginning in March 2026, approximately 3,800 dual-stream customers will transition to single-stream recycling. Instead of separating materials into different containers, residents will place all recyclables into one blue-lid bin.
Additional changes include:
City officials say the simplified system will make recycling more convenient and help prepare residents for the launch of the new processing facility.
Residents received mailed notifications earlier this month outlining what is changing, why the transition is happening now, and what steps—if any—they need to take.
The City has also updated its website with detailed program information, accepted materials lists, visual guides, frequently asked questions, and a transition timeline.
Community open houses have been held throughout February, with an additional session scheduled for Thursday, February 19, from 4 to 7 p.m. at the Lincoln Park Barn. Residents are encouraged to attend, ask questions, and learn more about the phased rollout.
Future phases of the recycling overhaul will include transitioning multi-stream customers by the end of 2027 and expanding recycling access to additional areas.
Officials say the long-term goal is a more efficient, regionally integrated recycling system that supports a growing community while reducing landfill waste.
For more information, residents can visit gjcity.org or call the recycling information line at 970-254-3813.
