Asphalt Plant Plan in Freeport Sparks Company Response to Residents' Fears

New Asphalt Plant Proposal Sparks Concerns in Freeport

A new asphalt plant is being proposed just outside the city limits of Freeport, Florida, in Walton County. The project, led by Southeastern Asphalt, has sparked a debate among residents and local environmental groups who are concerned about its potential impacts on the environment and traffic safety.

The proposed plant would mix liquid asphalt to create pavement, operating for 10 hours daily. It would also require approximately 60 trucks to enter and exit the site each day, raising concerns about increased traffic and safety risks in the area.

John Jannazo, president of the Protect the Emerald Coast Alliance, expressed his worries about the environmental and traffic-related issues that could arise from the project. He emphasized the importance of protecting the local water supply, air quality, and overall safety of the community.

Legal representatives from the Dunlap and Shipman law firm stated that the Florida Department of Environmental Protection has approved the project. They explained that while environmental concerns are taken seriously, they are addressed at the state level rather than the local government.

The plant would be located in an industrial zone of Walton County, approximately 1.5 miles from the Hammock Bay neighborhood and near Highway 20. This location has raised additional concerns among residents, particularly regarding the traffic that could result from the daily operations of the plant.

Nancy Parker, a board member of the Protect the Emerald Coast Alliance, highlighted the existing traffic issues along Highway 20, which serves as a major artery for the region. She pointed out that the area has seen recent fatalities and that managing any potential accidents at the plant's location could be challenging.

Legal experts supporting the project claim that the Florida Department of Transportation has conducted traffic studies, and the Walton County Planning Department has approved the application. They are currently working on a development order to move forward with the project.

Gary Shipman, an attorney with the Dunlap and Shipman law firm, explained that developing property involves following legal processes and meeting specific requirements. He noted that if these standards are met, the project can proceed.

Residents of Freeport are not necessarily opposed to asphalt plants but are concerned about the specific location of this one. They argue that the zoning regulations in Walton County were established years ago and need to be revised to better suit current needs.

Jannazo mentioned that the lack of updated zoning over the past four years has created challenges for the community. He urged county commissioners to address these issues and find solutions that protect the interests of residents.

Shipman explained that the company chose the location because there was an asphalt plant in the same area for 31 years. This means that much of the necessary infrastructure, such as concrete pads and gas lines, is already in place.

The attorney emphasized that Southeastern Asphalt has followed all legal procedures and received the necessary approvals from both the county and the state. While this is not the first asphalt plant in the area, the demand for asphalt remains strong.

Despite the legal support for the project, some residents hope that the county commissioners will encourage the company to consider alternative uses for the property. The law firm anticipates that the project could begin by the end of the year if all plans proceed smoothly.

A public planning commission meeting is scheduled for mid-August, where residents will have the opportunity to voice their opinions and stay informed about the developments.