City Council Addresses Transfer Station Wait Times for Trailer Disposal

Cowlitz County officials are taking steps to address long wait times at the local transfer station, a growing concern for residents and commercial users alike. During a recent meeting, commissioners discussed the challenges posed by increased traffic and volume at the facility, particularly for trailer users.

The transfer station has seen a significant rise in usage over the past two decades, leading to congestion as tri-tipping trailers share space with packer and container trucks. This overlap has resulted in wait times of up to three hours during peak hours, which officials acknowledged as unacceptable.

To tackle this issue, commissioners are collaborating with Waste Control to explore potential solutions. One option discussed is adjusting the schedule for trailer access, particularly for commercial users, to alleviate congestion during busy periods. A previous change to allow commercial trailers access from 7:30 to 9:30 AM had initially reduced complaints, indicating that strategic scheduling could be effective.

As discussions continue, the county aims to implement changes that will improve the efficiency of the transfer station, ultimately enhancing the experience for all users. The commissioners are committed to finding a resolution that balances the needs of the community with operational capabilities, ensuring smoother operations at the facility moving forward.