Aggregate Industries outlines noise mitigation and blasting plans for 2025

The Peabody City Council's Ad Hoc Committee on Aggregate Industries convened on May 22, 2025, to address ongoing concerns regarding noise, air quality, and community impacts from local aggregate operations. Key discussions centered on noise mitigation efforts, air quality evaluations, and community feedback.

Committee members reported that noise levels from Aggregate Industries have been compliant but consistently near the limit for several hours over the past few years. To address this, the company plans to replace a bucket elevator by December 2024, a project delayed due to material supply issues. This upgrade is part of a broader strategy to reduce noise levels.

Air quality assessments conducted in October 2024 showed that volatile organic compounds and particulate matter levels were below the established safety standards. Groundwater testing also indicated no significant changes in quality since the previous year, with no reportable conditions detected.

Community concerns were raised during the meeting, particularly regarding the frequency of blasting operations. The 2025 blasting plan has been reduced to seven blasts, down from 19 the previous year, which was met with approval from residents. However, issues related to truck traffic, early arrivals, and engine braking noise continue to trouble the neighborhood. Residents expressed frustration over the use of engine braking, which has been a longstanding issue. The committee discussed the potential for a city ordinance to prohibit this practice in residential areas.

Residents also voiced concerns about the smell of asphalt, particularly affecting families with young children. The committee acknowledged these issues and emphasized the importance of maintaining air quality for community health.

The meeting concluded with a commitment to continue addressing these concerns and improving communication between Aggregate Industries and the community. The committee plans to pursue further measures to mitigate noise and enhance air quality monitoring in the area.