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City Denies Asphalt Plant Permit

Bothering Birds via Compfight CC
Sandhill crane at the Valle de Oro National Wildlife Refuge

Albuquerque’s Environment Department has denied the permit for a company to build a hot-mix asphalt plant near a wildlife refuge in the South Valley.

The department was slated to hold hearings about the plant, but before those were set, found that Albuquerque Asphalt’s plan could generate contaminant levels that exceed air quality standards.

The company applied to operate the plant around the clock less than half a mile from the Valle de Oro, which was designated a national wildlife refuge in 2011. Advocates were concerned about traffic, bright lights and a strong tar odor.

The company can re-submit an application in the future.

Marisa Demarco began a career in radio at KUNM News in late 2013 and covered public health for much of her time at the station. During the pandemic, she is also the executive producer for Your NM Government and No More Normal, shows focused on the varied impacts of COVID-19 and community response, as well as racial and social justice. She joined Source New Mexico as editor-in-chief in 2021.
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