Athens residents start petition opposing construction of gravel pit along Chemung River

ATHENS, PA (WENY)--A proposed gravel pit in Athens along the Chemung River is one step away from approval. However, it's not sitting well with some people in the community and they've started a petition.

Athens Township has approved a conditional zoning permit for a 375-acre gravel pit. The township's board of supervisors has been holding meetings since February.  However, the project still needs to go through the planning commission. Some residents oppose this project.

It's a hard no for me! I love to fish, I love to enjoy the peace and the quiet. That's not going to be the case anymore with this mine," Brian Mounts said.

Brian is a retired veteran and also part of a local group that has started a Facebook page called Save Round Top and The Chemung River Athens PA. He and other residents have concerns about blasting noise, river pollution, water contamination, and the proximity of Athens, H.S.

In a statement, Bishop Brothers Construction says, "we will follow all local, state, and federal guidelines for this project."

Jaime Alsing also has an issue with the project. She is part of the local group and started the petition to try and stop the construction of the gravel pit.

"We are going to hear blasting noise it's right on the river, it's a huge scenic kayaking area through here. A lot of people really enjoy the river. It's going to have a lot of environmental and economic impact on our community," Alsing said.

Deb Allen a resident of Athens doesn't want this gravel pit in her backyard. A part of the property her family owns is across from where the mining would take place.

"Once I found out about it I wasn't happy because I thought it's so close to the town," she said.

Bishop Brothers Construction went on to say they've filled all the necessary applications and they're looking forward to continuing to work with the community.

"Those applications were approved. We look forward to working with the local community like we have for the last 40 years," Samantha Fairlie said.