9:30 a.m., Wednesday, May 30, 2012 – program at 10 a.m.; tours at 10:30 a.m.

(tours of the old facility across the street will be offered at 8:30 a.m.)

Where: New South Transfer Station, 130 S. Kenyon, Seattle, 98108 (South Park)

Who: Mayor Mike McGinn, City Councilmember Richard Conlin, City Councilmember Jean Godden,

SPU Director Ray Hoffman, members of the community.

Why: When the old south transfer station was built in 1964 curbside recycling was more than two decades away. Today Seattle’s residents recycle 70 percent of their solid waste and the new station provides services for today and the future.

Features of the New South Transfer Station:

Reduced dust due to a misting system that can also be used to reduce odors.
A rainwater collection system that stores rain in a cistern to be used for washing.
Automated weigh-and-pay station for better efficiency, shorter lines and wait times.
Increased safety inside the station for customers and employees; a separate entrance for commercial collection trucks for added safety and efficiency.
Hydraulic compactors to optimize loads for efficiency.
High-quality architecture that meets the gold standard in environmental design.
Public art that features salvaged street signs and parts from the old South Park Bridge. Other artwork made from recycled plastic forks and spoons.
Niches for station staff to display “interesting items” that are found in the trash.
A viewing room for tour groups, individuals to safely see the activity on the sorting floor.