Oregon Recycles Street and Highway Signs to Save Environment

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Innovative Sign Recycling: A Win-Win for Oregon’s Environment and Budget

As government agencies strived to be more efficient, Oregon set a powerful example in sign recycling. By teaming up with private companies, the state explored effective ways to recycle old highway and street signs. This initiative not only enhanced sustainability but also reduced costs.

The Pilot Program

The Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) launched a remarkable pilot program in June 2012. They awarded a $150,000 contract to Northwest Sign Recycling. Their goal was clear: to find cost-effective and environmentally friendly methods for reusing old signs. The program was a part of a two-year effort aimed at addressing the ongoing challenge of sign replacement.

Efficient Collection and Processing

To facilitate the recycling process, ODOT distributed sign collection bins at various State Highway Department locations. Citizens and agencies could easily deposit their old signs in these bins. Once collected, the signs underwent an innovative hydrostripping process. This method used “highly pressurized streams of water” to remove lettering and reflective coating from the signs.

This approach was commendable because it avoided chemicals and prevented waste. The result was a clean sign ready for a new lease on life.

Cost Savings and Environmental Impact

The benefits of this program were striking. In just four months, ODOT resurfaced over 500 signs. More impressively, the state saw a significant budgetary improvement, saving 41 percent within its sign budget during that period. These savings could be redirected to other pressing infrastructure needs.

Conclusion: A Model for Other States

Oregon’s sign recycling initiative exemplified what government agencies could achieve through innovation and collaboration. As one looked for ways to enhance their agency’s sustainability efforts, they could consider implementing similar recycling programs. Not only could these lead to substantial cost savings, but they could also significantly benefit the environment. It’s time for other states to take note and follow suit.