(KNZA)--The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) has announced the recipients of its annual waste tire product grants, providing funding to communities and schools across the state.

According to KDHE, the grants are awarded to local municipalities as well as public and private K-12 schools, and are funded through revenue generated by the state’s tire excise tax—a 25-cent fee collected on each vehicle tire sold.

Several local entities are among this year’s recipients. The City of Robinson will receive approximately $15,600, while Riverside USD 114 has been awarded about $26,400. Effingham USD 377  received the largest local award at $40,000.

In total, KDHE awarded grants to 30 recipients statewide, distributing roughly $494,000. The funding is intended to support projects that incorporate recycled tire products, including playground surfacing, picnic tables, and other community improvements.

State officials say the program not only benefits local communities but also promotes recycling efforts and helps reduce waste by repurposing used tires into practical materials.