Helena could get glass crusher as early as February, would save $15K yearly

A glass crusher could be installed at Helena’s Transfer Station as early as February, pending City Commission approval.

If the crusher can better filter pulverized glass, Helena could send the materials to a Montana City cement plant.

“This is reuse, which is even better than recycle,” Helena Environmental Manager Leea Anderson said.

Helena has discussed the idea in plans and advisory councils for around three years, Anderson said.

Beyond giving Helena more control over its glass output, it could save $15,000 annually in transportation fees.

The city of Helena was one of the first to recycle glass in Montana, dating back to at least the early ‘90s, she said.

Recyclables and waste are dropped off at the Transfer Station at 1975 N. Benton Ave., which charges via permits based on city a