Lawton, OK – The Lawton Landfill is undergoing a significant expansion with the addition of two new waste disposal cells, a project that has been in the works since May. The expansion, which covers 19.2 acres, will increase the landfill’s capacity, allowing it to serve not only the City of Lawton but also surrounding communities for the next decade.
The new cells, designated as Cells 6 and 7, are located on the south side of the landfill and will provide much-needed space for waste disposal. The total cost of the expansion is approximately $6 million, funded through the 2019 Capital Improvement Plan (CIP).
Solid Waste Superintendent Jason Mansel assured residents that the expansion would not significantly impact daily life in the area. “It’s something the community will barely notice but will provide a great benefit,” he said. The new cells are being designed with environmental concerns in mind, with strict adherence to guidelines meant to minimize any potential negative effects on the surrounding environment.
“We’re following all the guidelines to make sure it’s as eco-friendly as possible,” Mansel explained. “We want to provide surrounding communities and the City of Lawton with a safe, environmentally friendly place to dispose of waste.”
Despite the scale of the project, Mansel emphasized that residents would not see drastic changes. The new cells will feature a lower level of waste placement, which he said would not be visible to the public. The expansion is expected to be completed and open for use by early next year.
The expansion will ensure continued waste disposal capacity for Lawton and neighboring towns, while also providing long-term economic benefits. The project is seen as an essential step in accommodating the area’s growing waste management needs while maintaining a commitment to environmental responsibility.
