FAQs

This project will help us learn what is working, what is not and what changes could make the system easier to use, more efficient and more affordable over the long term. The project aims:

• To understand how people currently use transfer stations and what challenges they face.
• To make sure all residents have reliable access to waste and recycling services.
• To consider options that could improve service, reduce costs and support long‑term planning.

To ensure future decisions are based on good data and community input.

Over time, the transfer station network has expanded piece by piece. This has resulted in sites that vary in their services, hours and distances from one another. Much of the equipment is aging and residents have expressed concerns about long travel times, limited hours and differing service levels between communities.

Because the PRRD covers a large and dispersed region, ensuring that the system works well is a priority. The 2021 Regional Solid Waste Management Plan identified the need to improve access and efficiency across the facility network. As a result, some upgrades were paused while the PRRD completes this comprehensive review to support fair, coordinated, and cost-effective future investments.

This assessment will not impact any curbside services being provided to residents or businesses.

We want to prioritize a cost-effective network that serves the region well. It is important to remember that managing waste and recycling isn’t free. Every item discarded has a cost - from the resources used to make the item, to handling, processing and the environmental impact.

We don’t know, yet. This assessment will help us identify gaps and opportunities that will inform changes for a better system. Your feedback is important to us so that we can make changes to better serve our community!

The community will be asked for feedback to help us improve and strengthen the options. Feedback will guide the final recommendations presented to the Solid Waste Committee and Regional Board.