A $2 million recycling facility planned for Newaygo is designed to meet increasing demand throughout West Michigan. The establishment of the “material recovery facility” at 313 West State Road is the culmination of a 15-month process involving the Newaygo County Economic Development Partnership. American Classic, a Muskegon firm, worked with the economic development group to purchase a vacant building where it will receive, sort, bale and market recyclable material from throughout the region. It’s estimated the center will divert 5 million pounds of material from landfills each year.
“A circular economy isn’t just good for the environment, but also creates new jobs and economic development opportunities,” American Classic Director of Advocacy and Community Engagement Lola Harmon-Ramsey said in a prepared statement. The project is expected to create 10 new jobs. Michigan Works! West Central will devote $35,640 to provide technical assistance and training grants for the new employees, according to the press release.
In addition to the new facility in Newaygo, American Classic will provide recyclables collection receptacles at local schools and campgrounds. That effort was supported by the County of Newaygo and grants from The Recycling Partnership and the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy.