Dakota and Scott Counties Break Ground on Expanded “Recycling Zone Plus” Facility in Lakeville
Published: May 6, 2026
LAKEVILLE, MINNESOTA - Officials in Dakota County and Scott County have officially broken ground on a major new regional recycling and household hazardous waste facility, known as Recycling Zone Plus, aimed at improving access, capacity, and sustainability services across the south metro.
The new facility, located at 10125 217th Street West in Lakeville, is a joint partnership between the two counties and is designed to meet growing demand while introducing new features not currently available at existing sites.
“We are providing safe, convenient, and efficient drop-off for household hazardous waste, as well as a Reuse Zone for people to pick up items they can use at home," Dakota County Commissioner Mary Liz Holberg said.
Provided by Dakota County Government Newsletter/LinkedIn
Expanded Services and New Features
Recycling Zone Plus will accept a wide range of materials similar to those handled at the current Recycling Zone in Eagan, including:
Household hazardous waste and chemicals
Small electronics and household electronics
Recyclables
Scrap metal and tires
Once dropped off, materials will be sorted, packed, and safely stored on-site before being transported to appropriate recycling or disposal facilities.
In addition to these core services, the new facility will introduce a Reuse Zone, a feature aimed at reducing waste and promoting sustainability. This area will allow residents to pick up free items in good condition, such as paints, stains, cleaners, and automotive products that other residents have dropped off.
Designed for Growth
The Recycling Zone Plus facility will be approximately twice the size of the current Eagan location, allowing it to better accommodate future population growth and increased usage.
Demand for these services has steadily risen, with participation at the existing Recycling Zone increasing by 33 percent over the past decade.
Officials say the new site will not replace the Eagan facility, which will remain open, but instead expand regional capacity and improve convenience, particularly for residents in the southern portions of both counties.
“But it's also important beyond the representational — this facility will have a lasting impact on the environment, the economy and the communities we serve," Scott County Commissioner Jody Brennan said.
Timeline for Opening
Construction is set to begin in spring 2026, with the facility expected to open to the public in late spring 2027.
Project Funding Breakdown
The Recycling Zone Plus project is being funded through a combination of state, federal, and local sources, including:
State (Capital Assistance Program): $8 million
Federal funding: $500,000
Dakota County landfill fees: $9.7 million
Scott County funds: $3.4 million
Officials also highlighted that the project is made possible through collaboration with state, federal, and city partners who contributed to planning and development efforts.
Long-Term Environmental Investment
With more than 20 years of successful operation at the existing Recycling Zone, county leaders say Recycling Zone Plus represents a long-term investment in environmental stewardship and public service.
By expanding access, increasing capacity, and introducing opportunities for reuse, the facility is expected to play a key role in reducing improper waste disposal and supporting sustainable practices across the region.
“To manage that waste, we need innovative solutions like we're here to celebrate today," said Anna Hotz, MPCA assistant division director. “We need those to protect the environment and human health of the communities and the region, and that's why projects like this are so important."
More updates on construction progress and operational details are expected as the project moves forward toward its 2027 opening.
Location of the new Recycling Zone Plus in Lakeville, Minnesota.
Written by: Will Wight
