Environmental Impacts

When managed thoughtfully and adhering to best practices, properly operated asphalt plants do not necessarily have to negatively impact home values. The key lies in maintaining a balance between industrial operations and residential surroundings. By implementing advanced technologies to minimize emissions, controlling noise levels, and investing in comprehensive environmental measures, responsible asphalt plants can coexist harmoniously with residential communities. When these considerations are prioritized, the potential benefits such as local employment opportunities and improved infrastructure can often outweigh any concerns, contributing to the overall vitality and sustainability of the area.

In urban environments, businesses such as restaurants, bars, and entertainment venues can produce elevated noise levels during operational hours, especially in the evenings. Similarly, construction sites, with their heavy machinery and ongoing activities, can contribute substantial noise to the surrounding area. On the other hand, well-designed asphalt plants are equipped with noise-reducing technologies, such as sound barriers, mufflers, and optimized equipment placement, effectively curbing the impact of their operations on neighboring residents. It’s important to consider that responsible asphalt plant management is increasingly prioritizing noise reduction to ensure compatibility with residential communities, thereby fostering a more peaceful coexistence.

We expect noise levels to be around 70-85 decibels (dB) at 50 to 100 feet from the plant. For context normal conversation ranges in the 60-70 (dB), while heavy traffic on a busy road or highway can reach around 85 (dB).

A full environmental impact study was done by The Cacoma-Pierce County health Department & City of Sumner in the State of Washington, completed in January of 2020. It shows highest concentration with 122’ from a plant. With anything else dispersing rapidly the further it gets away.