Where Is the Planned Vulcan Comal Quarry?
Vulcan Materials plans to set up a 1500-acre open-pit limestone quarry in a residential area of central Comal County, located between Bulverde, Spring Branch, Garden Ridge, and New Braunfels.
Carcinogenic Dust
All gravel quarries create and emit dust particles strongly associated with health problems such as lung cancer,1 heart disease,2 stroke,3 and reproductive issues.4 The finest particles are invisible and affect residents living miles away from the actual quarry site.
Truck Traffic
With the additional gravel-hauling traffic, expect to see an estimated 444 truck loads per hour in the surrounding area. The increased truck traffic will make our roads more dangerous and lengthen travel times. Roadways most impacted will be SH 46, FM 3009, FM 1863, and Beck Road.
Property Values
According to studies, properties within a five-mile radius of a new quarry (map above) lose up to 20 percent of their market value.5,6 Over 12,000 people live in the surrounding area. Property valuation losses are estimated at over $100 million.
Water Resources
The Vulcan quarry will affect local wells, water levels, and water quality. Impact will come from blasting, destruction of caves, increased storm runoff, and hazardous chemicals entering the water supply.
News Updates & Info
Apparent Breach in Tailing Pond Dam from Quarry in Edwards Aquifer Recharge Zone
A resident near the Anderson Columbia quarry in New Braunfels observed a thick, chalky liquid flowing across his property and farm—apparently coming from a quarry tailing pond breach.
Vulcan Quarry Opponents Sue TCEQ, Appeal Air Permit Decision
Stop 3009 Vulcan Quarry filed a lawsuit against TCEQ appealing their November 2019 decision to grant an air pollution permit to Vulcan Materials.
Comal County Commissioner, Precinct 1 Voter Guide
Donna Eccleston, Richard Smith, and Lindsay Poisel are candidates for Comal County Commissioner, Precinct 1, in the 2020 primary election. Voter guide and candidate questionnaire responses.
Events & Meetings
Bluebonnet Extravaganza Dinner & Auction
Saturday, September 12, 2020: Second annual fundraising dinner and auction in New Braunfels. Gourmet food, libations, music, dancing. live and silent auctions.
TCEQ Commissioners’ Meeting on November 20
Wednesday, November 20, 2019: TCEQ commissioners consider the decision recommended by SOAH judges regarding the pending Vulcan quarry air quality permit.
Community Education Meeting on October 8
Tuesday, October 8, 2019: Free educational meeting to learn more about the negative impacts from the proposed quarry and hear updates on legal and legislative efforts.