Ramp Litter Cleanup Program (RLCP) Grants

The Ramp Litter Cleanup Program (RLCP) is a competitive state grant program administered by the Washington State Department of Ecology through its Solid Waste Management Program. The program was established under the Waste Reduction, Recycling, and Model Litter Control Act and is designed to provide financial assistance to local governments for litter cleanup efforts on state highway ramps, interchanges, and intersections. Its mission is to support a cleaner environment across Washington by targeting high-visibility transportation corridors and reducing roadside litter accumulation. The program focuses specifically on operational cleanup activities rather than education or outreach. Eligible projects include the removal and disposal of litter from state-owned transportation infrastructure such as interstate ramps, state routes, and U.S. highways within the jurisdiction of local governments. The program prioritizes projects that address heavily trafficked areas and those with recurring litter accumulation. Activities funded may include labor, equipment use, disposal costs, and other direct expenses associated with litter cleanup operations. Funding for the 2025–2027 biennium is anticipated to range between approximately $500,000 and $600,000, subject to legislative allocation and final budget approval. Individual grant awards are initially capped at $60,000 per application, although additional funding may be distributed if available after initial awards are made. The program operates on a reimbursement basis, meaning recipients must incur eligible costs before receiving payment. The period of performance for funded projects runs from January 1, 2026 through June 30, 2027, providing up to 18 months for project completion. Eligible applicants are limited to local government entities within Washington State, including counties, municipalities, and other qualifying political subdivisions. These entities are responsible for administering the grant and implementing cleanup activities within their jurisdiction. While partnerships with community organizations, volunteer groups, or contractors are allowed, only local government agencies may apply directly and receive funding. The program explicitly excludes nonprofit organizations, individuals, and private businesses from applying independently. The application process for the 2025–2027 funding cycle was conducted through the Department of Ecology’s online Ecology Administration of Grants and Loans (EAGL) system. According to the official program schedule, the application period opened on October 15, 2025 and closed on November 12, 2025. Applications were evaluated through a competitive scoring process based on criteria such as the number of ramps cleaned, frequency of cleanup, project readiness, and the visibility and traffic volume of targeted locations. Awards were expected to be announced in December 2025, with grant agreements taking effect on January 1, 2026. The Department of Ecology monitors grant performance through regular reporting requirements, including quarterly progress and reimbursement reports submitted through EAGL. Recipients must maintain detailed records of expenditures and activities and comply with administrative requirements outlined in program guidelines. Contact for the program includes regional grant administrators such as Maggie Gray, who provide technical assistance and oversee implementation within assigned counties. The program continues on a biennial cycle, with future funding rounds anticipated subject to legislative approval and program continuation.

Prioritize projects on high visibility ramps; clearly define scope and cleanup frequency; ensure readiness with labor and equipment; maintain compliance with reporting and documentation requirements