Archive for year: 2012
Oregon Recycles Street and Highway Signs to Save Environment
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.
Gov Praises Prineville Road-Sign Recycler
Celebrating the Sign Recycling Success of Oregon’s Sign Reuse Program
In June 2012, Governor Kitzhaber visited Northwest Sign Recycling (NWSR) and praised the innovative Oregon Sign Reuse pilot program. This initiative, launched in February 2012, demonstrated significant success in reducing costs while promoting sustainability. Government agencies should take note of this effective approach to managing public resources.
A Positive Impact on the Budget
The state’s sign budget experienced an impressive 41% savings during the initial phase of the program. NWSR transformed 500 outdated aluminum street signs through a process called hydrostripping. This technology left the signs in virtually new condition, offering a sustainable solution for municipalities seeking to cut costs.
Governor Kitzhaber highlighted the program’s benefits, stating that it supported local economic development. The success of NWSR underscored the transformative power of collaboration between government and businesses. Such partnerships create positive ripple effects throughout communities and enhance regional economies.
Efficient Sign Recycling Practices
NWSR operated the pilot program under a $150,000 contract from the Oregon State Department of Transportation (ODOT). This collaboration allowed the company to recycle outdated signs effectively. NWSR utilized hydrostripping technology, which involved removing reflective sheets from the aluminum signs with only water.
This innovative method operated at a pressure of 36,000 pounds per square inch. As a result, the aluminum surface remained smooth and clean, ready for new reflective sheeting. Importantly, this process avoided harmful chemicals and erosive solutions, making it one of the most environmentally friendly options available.
Job Creation and Regional Development
Beyond saving money, the program generated new jobs in Central Oregon. NWSR’s efforts not only provided cost-effective solutions for sign recycling but also stimulated economic growth. Local residents benefited from employment opportunities and increased business activity.
ODOT’s Sign Shop in Salem received over 500 resurfaced sign blanks during the pilot program. Lori Webb, from the ODOT Sign Shop, expressed enthusiasm about the project’s early success. She described it as a “true win-win for the environment and Oregon’s sign budget.” Such testimonials highlight the importance of sustainability-focused programs.
A Model for Other States
NWSR’s achievement in Oregon has set a compelling example for other states and municipalities to follow. The pilot project demonstrated that government agencies could achieve substantial cost savings while supporting green initiatives. The results of this program are a powerful testament to the benefits of recycling and sustainable practices.
The collaboration between NWSR and ODOT established a new standard in public resource management. By implementing similar initiatives, other government agencies can also enhance their budgets and help protect natural resources.
Key Benefits of Sign Recycling
Government agencies should consider the numerous advantages of sign recycling. First and foremost, recycling saves municipalities and agencies money. By reusing existing signs, they can reduce the need to purchase new ones, particularly amidst rising aluminum prices.
Additionally, recycling aligns with community recycling mandates. Agencies earn credit for scrap aluminum signs that are damaged or unusable. Such credits can contribute to individual department budgets, ensuring that funding allocations remain intact.
Moreover, recycling services—including the pick-up and delivery of signs—make the process convenient for government agencies. This value-added service strengthens the case for adopting sign recycling as a standard practice.
Conclusion: A Path Forward
In conclusion, Oregon’s Sign Reuse pilot program stands as a shining example for government agencies everywhere. The approach not only resulted in substantial financial savings but also promoted environmental sustainability. The success of this initiative encourages collaboration between public sector entities and innovative businesses like Northwest Sign Recycling.
As government agencies seek ways to improve budget efficiency while supporting community sustainability, they should take a closer look at sign recycling programs. With the lessons learned from Oregon’s experience, these agencies have the opportunity to create a more sustainable future, drive economic growth, and make a positive impact on their communities.
Reflecting on this success, let us work together to adopt similar initiatives nationwide. The future of our communities—and the environment—depends on our commitment to innovation and sustainability.
How Northwest Sign Recycling is Paving the Way for Sustainable Practices for Oregon Streets
Sustainable Sign Recycling: A Win for Oregon
In Oregon, a new initiative is turning heads in the world of sustainable practices. A local, woman-owned company, Northwest Sign Recycling (NWSR), is forging ahead with a groundbreaking aluminum sign reuse program. This program, in partnership with the Oregon State Department of Transportation (ODOT), promises to save money and reduce waste.
Transforming Signage
The innovative process involves recycling and refacing weathered highway and street signs. Instead of purchasing new signs, NWSR will repurpose old aluminum signs into clean, reusable blanks. This not only decreases costs but also contributes to job creation in the region. ODOT’s commitment to sustainability shines through in this collaboration.
Hydrostripping Technology
One of the standout features of this program is the hydrostripping technology. This method uses pure water to remove reflective sign sheeting from old aluminum signs. It operates at an impressive 36,000 pounds per square inch. In contrast to traditional methods, hydrostripping leaves the aluminum surface smooth and ready for new reflective sheeting. Importantly, this process is chemical-free and environmentally safe.
Economic Benefits
The financial implications of this program are significant. Lori Webb from ODOT mentioned how this initiative could save the state thousands of dollars. By efficiently reusing materials, the program will lessen the burden on the state’s sign budget. Additionally, NWSR aims to create more jobs within the community. This dual benefit of cost savings and job creation is a compelling reason to support the project.
Community Involvement
NWSR will begin the program by placing sign bins at key locations. These bins will be available at State Highway Department Yards in Bend, La Grande, Troutdale, Roseburg, and Salem. Community members can participate by dropping off old signs and supporting this sustainable initiative. This involvement fosters a sense of shared responsibility and connection among residents.
A Green Future
The implementation of this program marks an exciting step toward a greener future for Oregon. By focusing on sustainable practices, NWSR and ODOT will help mitigate environmental waste. Every recycled sign supports the goal of reducing the carbon footprint. This forward-thinking approach can serve as a model for other states looking to implement similar initiatives.
Conclusion
The collaboration between Northwest Sign Recycling and ODOT exemplifies the power of local businesses working together for sustainability. Through innovative technology and community engagement, this program will not only save money but also protect the environment. As Northwest Sign Recycling leads the charge, Oregonians can feel proud to support a project that offers so many benefits. Together, we can make a positive impact and pave the way for a sustainable future.