Johnson County considers quarry expansion amid community concerns over blasting and noise

In the heart of Johnson County, a significant discussion unfolded during the Board of County Commissioners meeting on January 16, 2025, as officials reviewed a proposed amendment to the conditional use permit (CUP) for the Martin Marietta quarry. This quarry, which has been a fixture in the area since 1991, is seeking to expand its operations by an additional 53 acres to meet the rising demand for rock used in construction projects.

The existing quarry spans 885 acres, with a current mining area of 353 acres. The proposed expansion, outlined in yellow on the presented maps, aims to enhance the quarry's capacity to supply aggregate materials. The request for a 10-year term for the CUP reflects the urgency of increased rock demand, which has outpaced previous expectations.

Commissioner Allen Brand emphasized the quarry's long-standing presence in the community, noting that it has operated since at least 1950. He acknowledged the quarry's efforts to engage with local residents, particularly under the current management, which has made strides in addressing past concerns related to blasting and operational hours. The quarry now operates during the afternoon, avoiding early mornings and weekends, a change welcomed by the community.

However, concerns remain among residents, particularly regarding the impacts of blasting. Neighbors expressed worries about ground vibrations and noise, especially as the proposed expansion brings operations closer to residential areas. County staff confirmed that Martin Marietta has been compliant with blasting regulations and has implemented measures to mitigate these concerns, including using smaller charges during blasting operations.

The meeting also highlighted the importance of environmental stewardship, with a reclamation plan in place that requires the company to restore mined areas. Martin Marietta is exceeding the required reclamation ratio, ensuring that for every two acres disturbed, one acre is reclaimed.

As the Board prepares to make a decision on the CUP amendment, the discussions reflect a balancing act between meeting community needs for construction materials and addressing the concerns of local residents. The outcome of this proposal will not only shape the future of the quarry but also influence the dynamics of growth and development in Johnson County.