Request for Information | Problem Materials, Bulky Waste, and Emerging Materials Management at the Dane County Sustainability Campus

Dane County, Wisconsin, through its Department of Waste & Renewables, is issuing a Request for Information (RFI) #2025-RFI-003 to identify entities interested in establishing operations within the Sustainable Business Park adjacent to a new landfill in Madison. The RFI seeks innovative solutions for managing problem materials, bulky waste streams, and emerging materials with the primary goal of diverting significant waste volumes and creating marketable outputs such as energy, raw materials, or other products. Specific materials of interest include mattresses, gypsum drywall, mixed plastics, solar panels, and construction composite materials. The county is particularly focused on attracting businesses and technologies that can advance circular economy principles and minimize environmental impact. The project timeline includes construction of a new landfill and administration building starting in 2026, with facilities becoming operational in 2027/2028. A non-mandatory webinar is scheduled for January 29, 2025, at 11:00 am, with a site visit on February 11, 2025, at 12:00 pm. Responses are due by March 21, 2025, at 11:59 pm, and this RFI is part of a broader initiative with four concurrent RFIs aimed at transforming waste management approaches.

The RFI does not specify explicit set-aside designations or restrictions on responding organizations, indicating a broad invitation to potential partners across various sectors. The Sustainability Campus will encompass approximately 30 acres of a 230-acre property, with a focus on hosting reuse, repair, recycling businesses, waste management technologies, and research opportunities. The Department of Waste & Renewables operates as an enterprise fund, meaning operations are funded by service fees rather than taxpayer dollars. While specific budget ranges are not explicitly detailed, the Facility Needs and Recommendations Report suggests potential investment scenarios ranging from $19.4 million to $39.3 million for facility development. The project will be overseen by a Project Review Board consisting of three members appointed by the Dane County Department of Waste & Renewables, who will review and approve project plans to ensure alignment with sustainable development standards. The initiative represents a significant opportunity for businesses and technologies that can demonstrate innovative approaches to waste diversion, material reuse, and circular economy principles.