City leaders are scheduled to consider a proposal today to extend a gypsum mining operation further into the hillside area separating the Fort Pierce Industrial Park from a number of nearby residential neighborhoods. Some residents have expressed concern about air quality, dust control and other possible environmental impacts, but the Planning Commission recommended approval after seeing the series of steps that mine operators were willing to take to mitigate any negative impacts.
Managers with Progressive Contracting Inc., said the company is running out of material at its existing site, along 1700 East, and is looking for a permit to continue mining on 23 acres further to the southwest. The Spectrum
Note: Mining employment makes only 0.4 percent of Washington County’s nonfarm employment. Most of that employment occurs at sand and gravel pits.
