Asphalt Plant Meeting Draws Skeptics, Supporters

Concerned community members in western Roanoke County got the chance to ask questions about a proposed asphalt plant on Peaceful Drive.  Dozens of people went to the meeting at Glenvar Middle School on Monday.

Rick James is the Executive Vice President of Adams Construction, the asphalt company. He said it would benefit the community, “[and] provide a more effective and affordable local source of asphalt.”

The site on Peaceful Drive is zoned for heavy industrial buildings, but some of those who live in the area came prepared to tell why they think the plans wouldn’t work out for the best. (Others were more supportive of the plant in the proposed new location. Many in Glenvar had opposed the original site desired, which was closer to schools and homes.)

Henry Bryant expressed his concerns, which include “ecological safety, [and] the amount of carcinogens this plant will generate.”

James answered by pointing out that their products do not have carcinogens and are not classified as hazardous.

Others worried about traffic, especially since there are homes on Peaceful Drive.  James explained how the trucks would turn to the right out of the parking lot, which will avoid all the homes, which are to the left of the site.

“What we’ve said is 30 to 50 truck trips a day. A truck trip is a trip on-site and a trip off-site,” James said.

Bryant had another concern. “One of the main water supplies for the Roanoke Valley is right here, water supply for Roanoke, Salem is all tied right here.”

James explained the product is not water soluble or chemically active. He said the plant uses a neutralizing agent to virtually eliminate odor. When it comes to air quality, James said emissions are low and well controlled. Typically, their plants are seasonal and operate from April to December.

Adams Construction workers wanted people to know they would be a good neighbor, but any move-in process will come after more decisions and paperwork.

On November 2, the company will meet with the Roanoke County Planning Commission to request a special use permit. An asphalt company is allowed in the area by zoning, but only under a special use permit.

Then on November 17 the Board of Supervisors will meet on the issue. If approved, that is when the company will go through the permitting process with the Department of Environmental Quality.

(From media partner WSLS-10)

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