Benton County landfill expansion traffic study addresses tonnage cap concerns

During a recent government meeting in Benton County, Oregon, discussions surrounding the conditional use permit application for the expansion of Coffin Butte Landfill highlighted significant community concerns about potential increases in traffic and waste management practices. The meeting, held on May 2, 2025, focused on the implications of lifting the tonnage limit as part of the landfill's expansion.

One of the key points raised was the potential for increased traffic if the tonnage cap is removed. A representative from Republic Services addressed these concerns by explaining that their traffic modeling accounted for a 50% increase in traffic, which still indicated that the current infrastructure could handle the projected growth. They noted that Benton County's population is expected to grow at a rate of about 1% per year, leading to a gradual increase in traffic over the next decade.

However, the representative emphasized that the relationship between tonnage and traffic is not linear. While larger trucks carrying significant loads may increase the tonnage, they do not necessarily correlate with a proportional increase in the number of trips to the landfill. For instance, a single transfer truck can carry 25 to 30 tons of waste, compared to a personal vehicle that might only deliver 400 to 600 pounds. This distinction is crucial in understanding the overall impact on local traffic patterns.

Concerns were also raised about the potential for Republic Services to expand its operations beyond the current service area, which already covers 30% of Oregon. If the tonnage limit is lifted, there is apprehension that the company could increase its regional footprint, leading to more large trucks on local roads. The representative assured attendees that their models considered various scenarios, including regional operations and seasonal fluctuations, to ensure that the landfill's capacity would not be overwhelmed.

As the community grapples with these discussions, the implications of the landfill's expansion and the potential changes to traffic patterns remain a focal point for residents. The meeting underscored the importance of transparent communication and thorough modeling to address public concerns about waste management and its impact on daily life in Benton County. The next steps will involve further analysis and community engagement as the permit application process continues.