On March 15, a record 1,149 vehicles brought 101 tons of recyclable materials to Federal Way's semiannual recycling event - the highest participation and recycling levels seen to date.

Recycling events are held in Federal Way twice each year, and collect a wide range of materials beyond what's collected curbside, including appliances, scrap wood, batteries, tires, computers, televisions, fluorescent tubes, scrap wire, and light strands.

"Federal Way residents are very enthusiastic about recycling and keeping scrap materials out of the landfill," said Jeanette Brizendine, event organizer and Recycling Project Manager for the City of Federal Way. "I've had many people thank the City for sponsoring these events so they have an outlet to recycle items not typically accepted at the curb."

Most items at the recycling event are accepted at no cost to residents. Fees were charged to offset the recycling costs for computer monitors, televisions, refrigerators, freezers and air conditioners.

The event is sponsored by the City, with major funding from the Washington State

Department of Ecology and the Local Hazardous Waste Management Program in King County.

The next Federal Way recycling event is scheduled for Sept. 27 at the Twin Lakes Park & Ride. Visit www.cityoffederalway.com/recycling for details on how to recycle and properly dispose of materials.