Balancing the Need for Concrete Contractors and Safety

The state of Texas has seen a boom in the growth of its population. This contributed greatly to the demand for better infrastructure and housing. With this demand for infrastructure came a proportionate demand for aggregate construction materials

The difficulty involved with transporting these aggregate products has been a cause of concern for Aggregate Production Operations, homeowners, and local governments. Locals often claim that APOs have a negative impact on the environment of their communities. APOs, on the other hand, would maintain that they are legally within their rights to continue operations. 

The responsibility of finding a middle ground then falls to the local government and legislators. There needs to be a balance between meeting the rising demand for infrastructure materials and protecting the health and safety of communities.

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Legislation on Aggregate Production Operations

Aggregates simply refer to the fragments of rock used in the production of construction materials. These are often mixed with other materials that bind them together to produce asphalt, concrete, or mortar. This resulting product is then used to build foundations for homes as well as other public infrastructure. Examples of public infrastructure include municipal water systems, roads, and railroad tracks. 

The economic growth of the state of Texas contributed greatly to the growth of the APO industry. Due to a major increase in production, legislation was passed in order to set safety guidelines. There is now a standard permit in place that regulates how much APOs can operate rock crushing equipment. This is due to how much particulate matter enters the air, which can potentially have harmful effects on the environment and nearby communities.

The regulation of APOs requires a delicate balancing act since their products are important to the continued economic development of Texas. Significant disruptions to the market for construction materials could potentially risk slower economic growth, should prices for raw construction materials increase sharply. 

The Balancing Act

Regulating Aggregate Production Operations is a tough balance between economic growth and public safety. The continued economic development of the state in part relies on APO products. Disruptions to this market can potentially slow down growth and prices can rise sharply. 

In the interest of sustaining economic growth and infrastructure development, the Government of Texas has put forth legislation to protect the interests of both sides. The Texas Health and Safety Code states that APO facilities cannot be within 440 yards of a residence, school, recreational area, or place of worship. This allows for a buffer zone that protects residents and wildlife from the potential effects of their operations.

Supplying a Demand

Sustaining the operations of APOs can allow a concrete company better access to materials. It’s worth noting that the popularity of concrete housing is steadily rising. As early as 2019, Dallas contractors are making the switch to concrete as a primary building material. This is in response to the multiple tornadoes and other inclement weather conditions that have caused widespread destruction in Northern Teas. 

As the need for concrete housing grows, concrete contractors in Fort Worth are stepping up to meet this demand. This allows concrete construction companies to contribute to the overall growth of the many cities in the state of Texas.  

Perks of Concrete Housing

Texas is a state that is often at risk of natural disasters and inclement weather. The versatility and durability of concrete allow structures to resist these elements a bit easier. It also hinders infestations effectively and provides a decent amount of pest control. Concrete also does not rust or decay over time unlike wood so you can expect a longer structural lifespan.

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