Board approves special use to let S&G Excavating store aggregate, residents raised dust and traffic concerns

The Terre Haute Board of Zoning Appeals voted to approve a special use that allows S&G Excavating to store construction aggregate at 3645 Plum Street, a parcel zoned M2 heavy industry. The petition was presented by attorney Richard Shagley, and staff and the Department of Engineering offered favorable recommendations.

During public comment, nearby resident Beth Ammerman of 3518 Buckeye Street said she was concerned about dust, debris and noise and asked whether the site would be used to make and sell concrete or merely to store equipment. Ammerman noted the proximity of homes and a daycare and asked how the operation would avoid affecting the residential neighborhood.

Petitioners and staff responded that the current request covers storage of aggregate only (the owner already has industrial zoning that allows concrete plants). They said they had met with plant engineers and planned dust-control measures, and that trucks would be routed to Brown Avenue rather than through residential streets. One participant noted an initial estimate of "approximately 20–25 trucks a day" for early operations; speakers also said state regulations and IDEM enforcement are available if dust control is not maintained.

Board members asked about ingress, egress and road improvements; staff said the petitioner will improve access and install signage to keep truck traffic on approved routes. After discussion a motion to approve the special use passed by voice vote.

The board’s action allows S&G Excavating to increase on-site aggregate storage subject to the operational controls discussed during the hearing.