A proposal by Anderson Columbia to build an asphalt plant on 22.6 acres along North Citrus Avenue, just north of County Road 495 in Crystal River, has sparked concerns among officials and residents. The proposed site has raised issues about respiratory risks, noise pollution, environmental impact, and safety hazards.
The asphalt plant would serve a vital purpose, but it comes with a set of concerns. A 2018 Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) study found that people living near asphalt plants reported a significant uptick in respiratory issues, like asthma and bronchitis. Long-term exposure can increase the risk of lung cancer. Asphalt plants also bring operational noise levels soaring as high as 90 decibels, which is comparable to a rock concert. Prolonged exposure to noise levels above 85 decibels can lead to noise-induced hearing loss. Additionally, residents fear that the plant’s purported use of 40,000 to 75,000 gallons of water per day could strain the local water supply, especially with many homes on private wells in the vicinity.
The proposed asphalt plant also raises concerns about environmental impact and safety hazards. Asphalt plants can leach harmful substances into groundwater and nearby water sources, affecting local water supply and ecosystems. The plant would also come with fire and transportation hazards, including the transportation of heated asphalt and highly flammable emissions.
Residents and officials are worried about the potential impact on the local community. The Citrus County Chronicle reported that thousands of county residents have expressed concerns about the proposed asphalt plant. The Crystal River City Council and county officials are expected to review the proposal and make a decision.
Originally reported by Citrus County Chronicle – Crystal River
