The City of Cookeville is budgeting some $1.3 million for renovations this fiscal year at the Stevens Street/Lowe Avenue Recycling Center.
Cookeville Public Works Director Mary Beth Elrod said that center’s heavy use has driven the city to make it a complete recycling center. Elrod said efficiency and user friendliness are priorities on the project. Elrod said the new building will be in a different spot on the property and have more storage space for seasonal equipment.
“We want to move that building back and maybe tuck it off to the side and allow for more recycling bins, more options.” Elrod said. “More space for citizens to access and to turn around and get into the site. And also better access for our trash trucks.”
Elrod said the lot is being studied so contractors can create an efficient design. Elrod said the center will be kept open throughout the construction phase of the project, which is expected to be complete by June, 2026.
Elrod said the project is still in the design phase, with architects and engineers working to maximize the site’s potential.
“Once design is complete, we hope to use some of our city forces here at the Public Works department to remove that existing building on our own,” Elrod said. “And then we would expect about six months turnaround on plans, getting it out for bid, answering any questions, and maybe seeking a contractor on it.”
Elrod said the city is exploring the possibility of adding a salt bin as part of the project. Elrod said the only salt bin in the city is located at the mulch site on Jackson Ave.
Elrod said the center is strictly a recycling site, and Cookeville residents should continue to utilize the trash pickup service for household waste.
“We provide cardboard bins, glass bins, aluminum can bins, plastic and paper,” Elrod said. “This is not for any trash or large, bulky items.”
Elrod said large non-recyclables, such as unwanted furniture, are picked up twice a month by the Public Works department. These pickups need to be scheduled in advance.
The building portion budgeted at some $500,000. City Manager James Mills said in the past he hoped the facility could be upgraded to improve its aesthetics.
