Officials break ground on hazardous household waste facility in Mesa

PHOENIX — It will soon be easier for Mesa residents to dispose of hazardous household waste.

The city broke ground Thursday on a permanent drop off facility for hazardous household waste. Mayor John Giles said it will be much more than a dumping ground.

“It’s not just picking up all this stuff that is bad for the environment,” he said. “It’s also reusing it, recycling it, finding ways not to dispose of it.”

Right now, Mesa only holds four events for dropping off hazardous household waste each year.

Mesa’s Environmental Management and Sustainability Director Scott Bouchie said he is excited, too.

“This new permanent facility … will further strengthen Mesa’s commitment to be a good steward of the environment,” he said. “The facility will offer a much more convenient option for Mesa residential customers to dispose of items which should not be placed in their trash or recycle containers.”

(Photo: City of Mesa)

The facility will have weekly drop-off hours, as well as a Swap Shop where residents can pick up household materials that are still usable, such as cleansers and propane.

In addition, the grounds and building will feature native and desert-adapted plants that will attract wildlife, reduce the urban heat island effect and beautify a former landfill.

Officials also plan to use low-impact development strategies that will collect rainwater for irrigation supplementation and improve water quality.

The new facility is expected to be completed late next year and will be located at 2412 N. Center Street.

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