The Village of Rhinebeck is once again enlarging its solar-powered trash compactor program, with the addition of a unit at the Post Office.

“Three years ago, we made a commitment to increase the efficiencies of our solid waste and recycling program in the village business district. We have now secured another location and will be placing a unit at the Post Office property on Mill Street,” Mayor Jim Reardon said in a news release.

The units, called Big Belly trash compactors, compress the trash to one-fifth of the actual size, which Reardon said means “less labor for collection, less vehicle trips, fuel expense, mileage, wear-and-tear on trucks and, of course, a reduction in carbon footprint.” The units also have recycling containers for cans, bottles and paper.

The program is being phased in over the course of several years and once fully implemented is projected to save the village approximately $20,000 yearly, Reardon said.

He noted, “The business district is the heart of our community and tourism drives our local economy. Through good planning and development, we hope to lend our support to our local businesses and keep Rhinebeck an attractive destination for tourists. We have been partnering with property owners in the business district to secure locations for these units which help tremendously in improving the appearance of the village.”

Anyone interested in helping the village in this effort, contact Village Hall at 845-8760-7015.