After careful consideration of program costs, market conditions, and long-term sustainability, the City of Thomasville will close its Self Drop-Off Recycling Center, located in the 1300 block of Remington Avenue, effective October 31. Continued market challenges, combined with labor costs associated with inspecting materials and managing contaminated or non-recyclable items, have made it financially unsustainable for the City to continue operating the center.
“We recognize the importance of recycling in our community and appreciate the residents that take advantage of this service,” stated City Manager Chris White. “We must also ensure that we manage our City resources responsibly and evaluate the ongoing challenges that have made it difficult to sustain our recycling program. After careful evaluation, we have decided that closing the recycling center is the most responsible decision at this time.”
The public is encouraged to explore alternative recycling options, including services offered by privately owned companies, recycling opportunities for metal, tin, and aluminum available through Thomas County, and aluminum can recycling programs supported by local nonprofit organizations.
The aluminum can collection trailer, currently located at the City’s recycling center, will be moved to Thomas County Fire Station 15, located at 1202 Remington Avenue. Proceeds benefit the Georgia Burn Foundation. Thomasville Humane, located at 180 Big Star Drive, also accepts aluminum cans, with proceeds supporting their non-profit efforts including food and medical treatments for shelter animals.
Although the Self Drop-Off Recycling Center is closing, the City will continue to offer free curbside white goods recycling, which includes items such as washing machines, refrigerators, and ovens. This service is available on the third Saturday of each month by making an appointment with the Solid Waste Department.
The City will also continue to host yearly recycling events such as Spring Clean and is planning a Fall Clean event on November 21. These events offer opportunities to safely dispose of white goods and hard to dispose of items such as automotive and paint products. As additional events are scheduled, information will be shared with the community.
For more information, including additional information about curbside white goods recycling, contact the City of Thomasville Solid Waste Department at (229) 227-7092.