Beers explains that another part of the operation’s current upgrade includes moving stockpiles to better accommodate the new primary and organizing other stockpiles to help ensure leaner overall throughput. “Transportation costs more than the stone now,” he notes. “We are working to organize things better to eliminate such problems as returned product.”

These additional efforts to upgrade the operation emphasize Tilcon New York’s dedication to improving more than the quarry’s production numbers. For instance, one project that was completed during the summer of 2008 was a $300,000 restoration of the historic Storms Tavern that is part of the property, which has helped to raise opinions of Tilcon New York in the eyes of area residents.

Also, Bulnes explains that while the West Nyack Quarry is west of the Hudson River, it is located between Lake Deforest, which provides potable water to New York City, and the Palisades Mall, a popular three-story indoor shopping center. “This actually is a very urban area, and we have been working to address community concerns with noise, dust, and traffic. So by the end of 2009, we will close the current entrance by the lake and open a new one off of the interstate, which will greatly cut down on truck traffic,” he says.  “We spray material at all crushing stages and conveyors as a dust control measure. And from an aesthetic point of view, the old buildings that have been here since 1958 will be gone by the end of the year.”

Do some of these efforts seem to be overkill? Bulnes says he doesn’t believe so. Because with privilege comes responsibility. “We’re the closest quarry to New York City,” he says. “All eyes are on this plant for a lot of reasons.”

Article and photos courtesy of FLSmidth Minerals.