More than 25 plants exist in the Twin Cities Metro Area alone. These facilities are tucked into neighborhoods, close to major hospitals and near entertainment attractions. Bituminous Roadways, Inc. owns and operates three asphalt plants, in Inver Grove Heights, Shakopee and Columbus, MN.
A study conducted of asphalt plant emissions by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in 2002 found that such facilities are not a major source of air pollution. At that time, they were delisted by the agency as an environmental threat or health hazard. However, emission control regulations are still in place to ensure standards are followed.
As a matter of fact, asphalt pavement mixing facilities are well-regulated by state and federal agencies who monitor emission controls. Every year, asphalt pavement mixing facilities must report specific information on emissions and meet the standards in order to continue operating. These regulations ensure the facilities pose no health or environmental risk to nearby communities.