MERIDIAN – Residents are encouraged to apply for a free refurbished bike through Meridian’s Recycle a Bicycle Program. This program connects refurbished bicycles with those in need, including students and veterans. This program is a collaborative project by the City of Meridian’s Solid Waste Advisory Commission (SWAC) and Republic Services. Republic Services reports hundreds of bicycles are dropped off at the Meridian Transfer Station each year; the goal of the program is to divert these bicycles from the landfill.
“Programs like Recycle a Bicycle, are where solid waste diversion really shines,” said Solid Waste Advisory Commissioner, Mark Nelson. “Meeting the needs of our community members while keeping waste out of the landfill is a win-win situation for the City of Meridian.” The City of Meridian Solid Waste Coordinator, Sayard Schultz, added, “We’re excited to have this program back for another year. Interest in the program continues to grow and we’re grateful to have the opportunity to serve our community.”
The program is free; requests must be submitted by 5:00 p.m. on Friday, April 26. Applicants will be fitted with an appropriate bike based on the applicant’s corresponding needs until supplies last. Parents of minors will have to complete the request form and accompany their child to pick up their bike. To apply, visit www.meridiancity.org/rab.
Those able to be matched with an appropriate bike will be notified and may pick up their bike at the Meridian Transfer Station between April 29 and May 3 during designated, scheduled times (determined once a match is made). Additionally, Republic Services and SWAC will have extra smaller kid bikes at the Unplug and Be Outside Kick Off event on Saturday, May 11, from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at Kleiner Memorial Park (1900 N Records Ave.). These bikes are for families who would like a bike and did not apply online for a specific bike type. A simple self-repair station with a free flat tire slime-filling post will also be available during this event. For more information about Unplug and Be Outside, visit www.meridiancity.org/unplug.
“Programs like Recycle a Bicycle, are where solid waste diversion really shines,” said Solid Waste Advisory Commissioner, Mark Nelson. “Meeting the needs of our community members while keeping waste out of the landfill is a win-win situation for the City of Meridian.” The City of Meridian Solid Waste Coordinator, Sayard Schultz, added, “We’re excited to have this program back for another year. Interest in the program continues to grow and we’re grateful to have the opportunity to serve our community.”
The program is free; requests must be submitted by 5:00 p.m. on Friday, April 26. Applicants will be fitted with an appropriate bike based on the applicant’s corresponding needs until supplies last. Parents of minors will have to complete the request form and accompany their child to pick up their bike. To apply, visit www.meridiancity.org/rab.
Those able to be matched with an appropriate bike will be notified and may pick up their bike at the Meridian Transfer Station between April 29 and May 3 during designated, scheduled times (determined once a match is made). Additionally, Republic Services and SWAC will have extra smaller kid bikes at the Unplug and Be Outside Kick Off event on Saturday, May 11, from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at Kleiner Memorial Park (1900 N Records Ave.). These bikes are for families who would like a bike and did not apply online for a specific bike type. A simple self-repair station with a free flat tire slime-filling post will also be available during this event. For more information about Unplug and Be Outside, visit www.meridiancity.org/unplug.
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BreAnna Clifford
Communication Specialist