Quarry operator emphasizes safety protocols amid new expansion concerns

The Will County Board convened on March 20, 2025, to discuss various topics, with a significant focus on quarry operations and safety measures. The meeting highlighted concerns regarding blasting practices and the implications of a new quarry operation.

The discussion began with a presentation on the safety protocols in place for blasting at the quarry. A representative emphasized that all detonations are controlled and directed into the center of the quarry, ensuring safety for nearby residents and workers. The speaker reassured attendees that the blasting area is monitored, and a safety perimeter of one thousand feet is maintained around the site. They noted that the quarry's expansion is a gradual process, likening it to slicing off small portions of a stick of butter, and reiterated that safety is the top priority in their operations.

Member Dean Schlotman raised questions about the historical safety record of quarry operations. The representative responded by stating that since 2007, there have been no fatalities related to blasting incidents outside of quarry sites, contrasting this with the annual fatalities caused by lightning strikes. This data was presented to alleviate concerns about the safety of the new quarry.

However, Member Berkowitz expressed skepticism regarding the safety data, pointing out that the current discussions pertain to a new quarry operation rather than an expansion of an existing site. Berkowitz highlighted that the proximity of the new quarry to residential areas and schools could present different risks compared to the existing quarry operations.

The meeting concluded with a call for further questions from board members, indicating ongoing discussions about the implications of the new quarry and the need for thorough consideration of safety measures in light of its location. The board is expected to continue evaluating the quarry's operations and their impact on the community in future meetings.