Frequently Asked Questions

Why is Roanoke Cement moving forward with this project?

As is common practice in limestone mining, we performed an analysis of our aggregate reserves at the Troutville quarry and plan to relocate existing mining operations to a new site on our property. In order to meet the demand for cement in communities across Virginia, it’s important to plan ahead to ensure we have a steady supply of limestone to continue operating the cement kiln at our plant.

What can our neighbors expect during construction?

Roanoke Cement respects and values our neighbors and are always exploring new ways to reduce the impact our operations have on those around us. Construction will require excavating and blasting at the western portion of the property. While we anticipate that some neighbors will be closer to the mining activities than they previously were, we do not anticipate that this will be a substantial difference or experience a larger impact of truck volume or an increased frequency of blasts.  

Additionally, this project will require the relocation of the Andy Layne Trail bridge. During construction, hikers will still be able to access the current trail segments with no disruption during construction. We anticipate this project to begin in the spring of 2025. Site work at the new quarry will begin in the spring of 2026, which will include moving the rock and soil at the surface level. Finally, the new quarry will undergo final inspections and become operational in the spring of 2028. At this time, the former quarry will be revitalized into a thriving ecosystem.

Can this expansion be located anywhere else? Why this location?

This location was chosen after a formal scoping and feasibility study was conducted to assess all options on our property for new mining operations. Minimum quantities of limestone required for efficient production, environmental impact, safety and adherence to all federal, state and local regulations were a few of the many factors taken into account.

What materials does Roanoke Cement mine for?

We mine for limestone, which is the primary raw material in the cement manufacturing process. Many people don’t realize that cement is the second-most-used substance in the world after water. Being the only cement producer in Virginia, this means we produce materials that are used for vital construction projects across the Commonwealth, such as highways, bridges, hospitals, schools, high rises and sewer infrastructure.

What is Roanoke Cement’s economic impact?

Roanoke Cement is one of the largest taxpayers in Botetourt County, contributing more than $1.4 million in 2022 to support the county’s infrastructure, schools and other public projects. This tax revenue we provide contributes to a five percent lower property tax rate for county residents. The plant provides 175 direct jobs and supports 478 jobs in Botetourt County and 739 jobs for the Greater Roanoke Region, all while generating approximately $187 million in economic output for the county each year. *

Will the new quarry have any environmental impact?

Roanoke Cement conducts regular testing to ensure we are in compliance with all federal, state and county regulations. This includes inspections from the Mine Safety and Health Administration, the Virginia Department of Environmental Quality (solid waste and air divisions) as well as oversight by the Environmental Protection Agency and other regulatory bodies. An independent hydrology study showed that the new site will have no impact to Catawba Creek or residential wells, nor will it lead to increased truck traffic on local roads. The new quarry allows us to continue operating business as we are today, and once operations are complete, both the current and future site will undergo restoration to add trees and vegetation and will be converted into ponds.

Will the project impact nearby hiking trails?

Moving our operation gives us the opportunity to relocate portions of the Andy Lane Trail that sit on Roanoke Cement property to an improved location with better access for trail-goers. We have a long-standing relationship with the local trail clubs and have been working closely with them to evaluate the new route and assess additional improvements that can be made to enhance safety at the trailhead and the overall hiking experience. We’re confident that hikers who frequently access the Andy Layne Trail on our property will be pleased with the new improvements. Lastly, just as our current quarry is visible from certain parts of the nearby Andy Layne Trail and Appalachian Trail, depending on the season, the new site will also be visible from certain sections of these trails.

Will the new site incorporate buffers, landscaping or any other visual improvements?

Roanoke Cement is evaluating all options to ensure the new quarry has as little visual impact to the natural landscape as possible. This includes preserving a substantial amount of existing vegetation and planting more native trees and plants.

How can residents and business owners in the community become involved in this process?

We value and welcome your input. If you have questions or concerns about the project, please fill out the contact form on this website. 

*Source: June 2023 Economic Study

Stephen S. Fuller, Ph.D.
Founding Director, Stephen S. Fuller Institute
George Mason University