SEATTLE (Scrap Monster): Waste Management (WM) has begun distributing new 96-gallon recycling carts to residential customers in Kennewick, Washington, as the city prepares to transition to an automated, cart-based collection system later this month.

The company will deliver the blue carts free of charge between November 1 and November 14. Residents can start using them immediately upon delivery. Meanwhile, the revised recycling collection schedule is scheduled to take effect during the week of November 16.

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The new containers offer approximately five times the capacity of the existing open-top bins. Their attached lids are designed to prevent recyclable materials from getting wet or blowing away. The wheels on the containers will make curbside placement easier. Also, automated collection mechanism is expected to reduce manual lifting and associated injury risks for sanitation workers.

The transition follows Kennewick's updated solid waste agreement with WM, approved by the City Council on October 20. The contract covers January 2026 through December 2035, without anticipated increases in service rates or reductions in existing services.

Residents are advised to place cardboard and other accepted recyclables inside the new carts. However, batteries and construction and demolition debris will not be accepted.

The agreement includes a possible convenience fee for credit card, debit card and digital wallet payments. Customers using automatic bank withdrawals will avoid this charge.