As a Reminder an Alabama based, publicly traded company called Construction Partners Inc (CPI) has purchased Lone Star Paving, the dba for Asphalt Inc. LLC
Videos Posted by Jack Wheeler the founder & Operations Manager of Lone Star Paving the dba for Asphalt Inc. LLC
As a resident of the Texas Hill Country, I am deeply disgusted by the idea of being thankful for rain solely to enable the devastation of our beautiful landscape for profit. POST #1. The following video below and commentary were recently posted on Jack Wheeler’s LinkedIn page (Click Here for the link). Jack Wheeler, the founder of Asphalt Inc., dba Lone Star Paving, shared: "It's amazing how the sight and smell of a bonfire can transport you to another time and place. It's as if a distant memory of humans being around the campfire throughout time is ingrained in our DNA. Thankful for the rain to allow us to clear off the next parcel of land and get ready to strip, drill, and blast." For most of us in the Texas Hill Country, rain is a blessing. We are grateful for the rain because it replenishes our precious water supply, nourishes our plants and trees, and sustains our wildlife. Rain helps keep the dust down, supports our ecosystem, and is a critical resource for our community’s wellbeing. It is unfathomable to think that anyone would view rain as an opportunity to strip, drill, and blast the natural beauty of this area. This sentiment not only reflects a complete disregard for the environment but also reveals a profit-driven mentality that prioritizes industrial gain over nature’s preservation. While many of us see rain as a symbol of life and renewal, it is appalling to witness it being celebrated as a means to destroy the very land we cherish. Our mission remains clear: to protect the Texas Hill Country, ensuring that our land, air, and water remain safe and abundant for generations to come.
POST #2. Jack Wheeler of Lone Star Paving - Asphalt Inc. recently posted a video and statement on LinkedIn (view video below or Click Here for post) that truly highlights the threat facing our community. In his own words: "Drilling and blasting are the first steps in the mining process here at Lone Star Aggregates. We work with Buckley Powder Co. for our blasting needs and are very happy with the results that we are seeing in our production reports. Thanks Buckley for all of your hard work!" While Asphalt Inc. celebrates its production gains, the Texas Hill Country faces the real risk of destruction. The massive dust clouds and ground-shaking blasts showcased in the video are more than just production steps—they are a direct threat to:
Thousands of children attending summer camps nearby.
Residents living less than a mile away.
The natural beauty of two state parks, only three miles away.
You may also recall that when TCEQ recently approved the air quality permit for Asphalt Inc., they did not consider any dust abatement from blasting activities. Where is the government’s protection for our kids, residents, and state parks? The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality's (TCEQ) mission is to protect public health and natural resources while supporting sustainable economic development. Their goals include achieving:
Clean air
Clean water
Safe waste management
However, the video of blasting operations and the approval of a flawed permit clearly show that TCEQ is not living up to its mission. Instead of protecting the community, TCEQ's decision seems to prioritize industrial profits over public safety. Imagine this scenario:
Blasting operations creating massive dust clouds that settle over camps, homes, and parks.
Respiratory risks for our children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing health conditions.
The economic impact of reduced tourism and property value declines.
Now, more than ever, we need your support to hold TCEQ & your State Officials accountable and prevent this dangerous project from moving forward.
POST #3. Jack Wheeler of Lone Star Paving - Asphalt Inc. recently posted another video on LinkedIn, showcasing blasting operations with the following quote: "Starting the day with a 180-shot explosion is just another day at Lone Star Aggregates!" View the Video below or his post here:Jack's Blasting Video. For most of us, the Texas Hill Country represents tranquility, natural beauty, and a peaceful start to the day. We moved here to enjoy nature’s serenity, not to be jolted awake by industrial explosions. It is unacceptable for this kind of industrial activity to occur so close to residential neighborhoods, children’s camps, and our beloved state parks. The impact of these blasts on our community, air quality, and safety is profoundly concerning. We must act now to prevent this from becoming our new normal! I urge all of you to get involved. Contact your state officials and make your voices heard. Our community deserves better protection from industrial encroachment. For contact information on all Texas officials, please visit the SaveBurnet.com website or Click Here.
The first of many Air Monitors installed next to the operational Asphalt Inc. / CPI plant in Spicewood Texas.