The City of Grand Junction has purchased a curbside recycling operation.

The Grand Junction City Council approved a contract to purchase Grand Junction Curbside Recycling Indefinitely. 

The city began a partnership with GJ CRI in 2007 when it entered into an agreement to pay certain expenses for the operation to continue. In return, money from the sale of residential commodities collected at the curb was returned to the city to offset program costs.

Customers won’t see any operational changes during the transition to new ownership, and curbside and drop-off recycling operations will continue.

Under the new ownership, city officials expect to expand recycling opportunities.

Steve and Elaine Foss started GJ CRI as a pilot project in 1989 to offer residential curbside recycling services. The operation grew to the point the two quit their jobs to manage the program. “We grew the fledgling pilot project into a citywide program,” Steve Foss said.

Jay Valentine, general services director for the city, said the growing program has kept GJ CRI and city staff busy. “Everyone involved can take pride in what has been accomplished and what will be accomplished by the city going forward.” Valentine said. “This is a wonderful opportunity to continue the Foss’ passion for recycling in Grand Junction. The city is excited to continue providing recycling services to our residents.”