HomeMy WebLinkAboutDept Report 03-27-06
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CARMEL BOARD OF ZONING APPEALS
DEPARTMENT REPORT
March 27,2006
13-14. Martin Marietta Materials - Mueller Property South
Petitioner seeks special use approvals to establish surface limestone operations & an artificial lake on
96.921:1: acres.
Docket No. 05090003 SU Chapter 5.02.02 mineral extraction
Docket No. 05090004 SU Chapter 5.02.02 artificial lake
The site is located at the southwest comer East 106th Street and Hazel Dell Parkway. The site is zoned S-
l/Residence - Low Density. Filed by John Tiberi of Martin Marietta Materials, Inc.
General Info:
The petitioner is seeking
special use approval for
limestone extraction. Also, an
artificial lake will be
developed after all minerals
are extracted, as part of the
reclamation plan. The property
is zoned S-l/Residence - Low
Density and is partially within
the Special Flood Hazard
Area. The Comprehensive
Plan Land Use Map designates
this site as part of a Low-
intensity Regional
Commercial Employment Area, however, just to the north and northwest of this site are Low Intensity
Residential Communities. Chapter 2.6 of the Comprehensive Plan goes into further detail as to what is
envisioned for this area and what adjacent uses are acceptable (see attached excerpt). This is a very
complex land use request as evidenced by the level of review and input from the public. Please refer to the
commitments (see attached Feb. 22, 2006 proposed commitments) prepared by Martin Marietta
Materials, where the amended Mining Ordinance, recently approved in April 2005, served as a guide for
some of the submittals.
Analysis:
The responsibility of the Board in a case such as this is to weigh the factual evidence presented to it and to
determine whether the proposed land use qualifies for approval under the special use criteria, as
established by the Zoning Ordinance. The two key criteria here involve (a) the economic factors (in
particular, whether the proposed use may have a negative impact on surrounding property values), and (b)
the social/neighborhood factors (in particular, whether the proposed use would be compatible with
previously existing residential uses in the vicinity).
The major issue of concern to residents who live in the surrounding neighborhoods is air and ground
vibrations resulting from blasting of rock. The limestone is mined by blasting benches. The total thickness
of the limestone material is approximately 215 ft. There will be no aggregate processing on the subject
property. Secondary concerns are noise (from trucks revving engines to beeping while in reverse to
materials removal), dust, and truck traffic. Additionally, the remonstrators have raised the issue of
negative impact on property values if the mine is allowed to extend northward toward the Kingswood
neighborhood.
Ifblasting as proposed is granted, there may eventually be blasting as close to existing residences as the
southwest comer of 106th Street & Hazel Dell Parkway. The blasting and vibrations that currently
originate from the existing quarry south of the subject premises will continue to creep closer and closer to
the adjacent residential neighborhoods. Blasting is allowed in the existing quarry because it constitutes a
legal, nonconforming use under Indiana law and pursuant to legal settlement agreements previously
entered into between the City and the petitioner. However, the Board is not obligated to treat the existence
of the existing quarry and associated mining activities as a precedent that would entitle the petitioner to
expand its operations to the subject premises.
The Department of Community Services has received many continuing complaints about blasting at the
existing quarry over the years, primarily from the homeowners of the Kingswood neighborhood. The
2005 Mining Ordinance (which attempted to regulate all the existing and future mining operations, but
has never gone into effect and remains under judicial review) would have required an isoseismic study,
which is a high-tech analysis of blasting with subsequent recommendations to mitigate impacts to nearby
residents. Martin Marietta did, in fact, undertake an isoseismic study by Vibra Tech to assess current
blasting techniques at the existing mine. That document is contained in their November 30,2005
submission. The study, entitled "Measurement and Analysis of Blast Induced Ground and Air
Vibrations," indicated that current blasting techniques resulted in less than optimum levels for frequency
and air blasts that could be improved to help mitigate impacts to residents. Two letters dated November
22,2005 and December 9,2005 from the City's mining consultant, Spectra Environmental Group, Inc.,
outlined the information necessary to make a recommendation to the Carmel Dept. of Community
Services (DOCS) on the application. While Vibra Tech's isoseismic study did not include
recommendations for improvement, a subsequent letter from Vibra Tech dated February 8, 2006 did, in
fact, offer a series of recommendations for improvements in blast design and other techniques. However,
while Martin Marietta has indicated informally to Spectra and DOCS that it will accept some of these
recommendations ifthey are not economically unreasonable, the fact is that Spectra has been unable to
judge whether performance under the proposed new conditions at the existing mine will result in
improvements without some submission of data collected within a set period oftime, to verify that the
proposed changes are working. Therefore, it is impossible to predict that the changes recommended by
Vibra Tech will have any effect on the overall blasting impacts and the continuing complaints from the
surrounding neighborhood, including Kingswood.
Throughout the Mining Ordinance review process, there was a significant debate about the peak particle
velocity level to be adopted. Peak particle velocity is one measure of mining impact and structural
damage, but more modem analyses appear to suggest that other parameters may be more important. For
your reference, the following table illustrates the peak particle velocity levels (in inches per second)
adopted and regulated by other State laws and City ordinances throughout the country:
City/County/State Entity Maximum peak particle velocity (PPV) Other PPV Other PPV
Indiana Administrative Code Not to exceed 1.0 in/sec
-Adoption ofNFPA 495
Explosives Materials Code,
2001 edition
Illinois General Assembly Not to exceed 1.0 in/sec at the location of
any protected structure
Pennsylvania Code Not to exceed 1.0 in/sec at any protected
structure btwn 301-5000 ft from blast site
Kentucky Legislature Max of 2 in/sec for 1 second after the
blast, then down to .5 in/sec.
Kentucky State Regulations Not to exceed 1.0 in/sec at the location of
any protected structure between 301-5000
ft from blast site
I ~
US Dept of the Interior Not to exceed 1.0 in/sec at the location of
Office of Surface Mining any protected structure between 301-5000
ft from blast site
Ohio Administrative Code Not to exceed 1.0 in/sec at the location of
any protected structure between 301-5000
ft from blast site
Illinois Administrative Code Not to exceed 1.0 in/sec at the location of < 1.25 in/sec at a < 0.75 in/sec at a
any protected structure between 301-5000 protected structure protected structure
ft from blast site less than 300 ft greater than 5,000 ft
from blast site from blast site
Maine Not to exceed 1.0 in/sec at the location of
any protected structure between 301-5000
ft from blast site
Overland Park, Kansas Not to exceed 1 in/sec at seismic .20 in/sec at .02 in/sec at residential
recording site property line property line
Tulsa, Oklahoma Not to exceed 1.0 in/sec at the location of
any structure
County of Santa Clara, Not to exceed 0.5 in/sec
California
Montgomery Co, Virginia Corresponds with Frequency levels,
average ranges from .50 to .75 in/sec
Town of Pittsfield, Wisconsin .75 in/sec for modern structures with 2.0 in/sec for all 0.50 in/sec for older
drywall interiors at frequencies below structures at freq. homes with plaster on
40Hz above 40Hz wood lath at freq.
below 40 Hz
Citrus Co, Florida Not to exceed .2 in/sec with frequency
greater than 1 Hz
Hernando County, Florida 1.0 in/sec at 30 Hz at structure .75 in/sec btwn 4-
12 Hz at structure
W oolwich, Maine 1 in/sec at 30- 40 Hz 2 in/sec at > 40 Hz
Blasting vibrations are perceptible to humans at low levels, near 0.02 to 0.05 inches/second. The peak
particle velocity level of 1.0 in/see was set by most states because it is the maximum level where a nearby
home should not be damaged by a blast.
Nearby residents have suggested that Martin Marietta should consider proposing blasting limits on the
Mueller South Property that are stricter than what were contained in the City's 2005 Mining Ordinance D-
1686-04 (NOTE: the Mining Ordinance's effect has been stayed by the courts). In this mining ordinance,
the peak particle velocities for a blast were limited to 0.5 inches per second at the property line where the
blast occurred. As of February 22,2006, Martin Marietta has committed itself to these limits, but not
levels lower than.5 in/sec. It should also be noted that there was a May 2000 proposed agreement (see
the attached Letter of Interest) between Martin Marietta and Kingswood Subdivision that was never
executed, where there would have been a commitment to produce a peak particle velocity yearly average
of 0.1 in/see for surface blasts.
The Department has received several binders of information for the file on this request including the
following:
1.) December 2002: Application for BZA Special Use Approval Request
2.) September 2005: Additional Information for Application for BZA Special Use Approval
Request
3.) November 2005: Executive Summary
4.) November 2005: Responses to TAC comments, Draft Commitments, Vibra-Tech Study
5.) December 2005: Responses to TAC comments, Draft Commitments
6.) February 2006: Executive Summary, Responses to TAC comments, Commitments
Special Use:
Section 21.03 of the Zoning Ordinance outlines the Basis of Board Review ofa Special Use as follows:
The Board, in reviewing the Special Use or Special Exception application, shall give consideration to the particular
needs and circumstances of each application and shall examine the following items as they relate to the proposed
Special Use or Special Exception:
(Please note that these replies may not encompass each and every aspect of each topic below.)
1. Topography:
The lay of the land includes Blue Woods Creek, and the parcels are partially within a flood plain.
2. Zoning on site; current zoning is S-I/Residence - Low Intensity & partially zoned SFHA - Special
Flood Hazard Area.
3. Surrounding zoning and land Use;
the surrounding zoning is S-I/Residence - Low Density comprising of mostly single family homes.
4. Streets, curbs and gutters and sidewalks;
No interior street will be needed. The petitioner will be vacating the road right of way for River Rd.
which exists in the site. A 10-ft asphalt path is required along both roads, pursuant to the
Alternative Transportation Plan.
S. Access to public streets;
The site will primarily use existing access to the mine just south of and adjacent to the site.
6. Driveway and curb cut locations in relation to other sites;
No new driveways or curb cuts are proposed.
7. General vehicular and pedestrian traffic;
Concern of haul trucks on the City roads with possible damage to roads or mudding up roadways. A
10-ft asphalt path is required along both roads, pursuant to the Alternative Transportation Plan.
8. Parking location and arrangement;
Parking required is one space per employee. Off-site parking at the North Indianapolis Plant is an
option.
9. Number of parking spaces needed for the particular Special Use;
This particular use has an off-site parking area where employees arrive at the site and navigate
loading trucks to the site. Employee parking is not necessary on site.
10. Internal site circulation;
Access to the site will be from the existing mine, just south of and adjacent to this subject parcels.
11. Building height. bulk and setback;
No buildings are proposed. A 40-ft front yard setback is required along with a 300-ft setback/open
space buffer from all property lines to the north and east. Also, a 15-ft D-buffer yard is required per
Chapter 26.04.05 of the Zoning Ordinance.
12. Front. side and rear yards;
A 40-ft front yard setback is required along with a 300-ft setback/open space buffer from all
property lines to the north and east. However, these setbacks seem to have contemplated sand and
gravel extraction operations, and not the mining of hard rock utilizing blasting by explosives.
13. Site coverage bv building( s), parking area( s) and other structures;
No structure will be on the site.
14. Trash and material storage;
Waste oil & gasoline will not be stored on-site; an SPCC (Spill Prevention, Control, and
Countermeasures) plan must be approved for this facility. Trash will be placed in on site
dumpsters, and trash will be removed periodically.
15. Allevs, service areas and loading bays;
Not applicable.
16. Special and general easements for public or private Use;
The petitioner has dedicated road right of way for 106th Street.
17. Landscaping and tree masses;
The landscape plan must comply with the buffer yard standards of the ordinance, providing a
vegetative buffer from the mining use and the residential uses & traveled parkways and arterial
roads adjacent to the site. Also, a 15-ft D-buffer yard is required per Chapter 26.04.05 of the
Zoning Ordinance. A 300-ft setback/open space buffer is required from all property lines to the
north, east, and west. The Urban Forester has approved the final Landscape Plan.
18. Necessary screening and buffering;
The petitioner must mitigate the negative effects of blasting. Adequate buffering from vibrations
and air blasts may be impracticable for a hard rock mining operation that is located in the vicinity
of residential uses.
19. Necessary fencing;
Fencing is not necessary or required, but it does add a safety precaution measure. The petitioner will
provide a 6-ft tall chain link fence along the north and east perimeters.
20. Necessary exterior lighting;
Lighting is not necessary or required, but it does add a safety precaution measure.
21. On-site and off-site. surface and subsurface storm and water drainage;
A drainage plan is included in the information binder.
22. On-site and off-site utilities;
Only electrical service is needed and will be extended from the south.
23. Dedication of streets and rights-of-way;
The 20-yr Thoroughfare Plan calls for 106th Street having a 45-ft halfroad right of way and Hazel
Dell Pkwy to have a 70-ft right of way. The petitioner has dedicated the road right of way.
24. Proposed signage (subject to regulations established by the Sign Ordinance);
Signage will not be on this parcel.
25. Protective restrictions and/or covenants.
Neither deed restrictions nor subdivision covenants will be submitted, but commitments will (refer
to the attached Feb. 22, 2006 commitments).
26. Need for lifeguards and other supervisory personnel. in respect to a private recreational development or
facility. Not applicable.
21.04 Basis of Board Approval or Rejection.
21.04.01 Special Use Decisions. The Board, in approving or rejecting a Special Use application, shall base its
decision upon the following factors as they relate to the above listed items (Section 21.03) concerning the
proposed Special Use:
1. The particular physical suitability of the premises in question for the proposed Special Use.
The site is partially within the special flood hazard area. The soil composition is that favorable for
mining, with high percentages of sand, gravel, limestone. Mining operations are adjacent to this
site, or in close proximity. Residential uses are also in close proximity to the site.
2. The economic factors related to the proposed Special Use. such as cost/benefit to the community and its
anticipated effect on surrounding property values.
The materials mined from the site will be used within the City as well as within the state in a
positive manner for construction of homes, roads, etc. However, the existence of a hard rock mining
operation that includes blasting may negatively affect nearby residential property values, or may dampen
anticipated increases in residential property values, unless blasting operations are severely limited or
mitigated.
The final man-made lake may, in theory, increase adjacent property values and may be an amenity
to the area once mining operations have ceased in the vicinity. However, if not approved pursuant to the
Special Use process, mining operations may continue on the premises for 20 or more years.
3. The social/neighborhood factors related to the proposed Special Use. such as compatibility with existing
uses and those permitted under current zoning in the vicinity of the premises under consideration and how
the proposed Special Use will affect neighborhood integrity.
A mineral extraction use including blasting, as long as it mitigates dust, noise, and blasting
vibrations from the site and keeps these annoyances to acceptable levels, may constitute a somewhat less
intensive use than a factory or industrial use. However, only when the factors that affect quality of life are
mitigated can such a use be perceived as compatible with typical uses in a residential zoning district.
4. The adequacy and availability of water. sewage and storm drainage facilities and police and fire
protection.
The mine does not require water or sewer facilities. A drainage plan has been submitted. Police &
Fire services will be used minimally, if at all. However, public safety officials will need to monitor blasting
levels for compliance with the petitioner's commitments. Also public safety officials will need to monitor
the underground water quality near this site.
5. The effects of the proposed Special Use on vehicular and pedestrian traffic in and around the premises
upon which the Special Use is proposed.
There will be minimal vehicular or pedestrian impact, as long as the haul trucks use the mine to the
south of the property for ingress/egress. The installation of the pedestrian paths along 106th & Hazel Dell
will be a positive impact for pedestrian access along these roads. Public pedestrian & vehicular access will
not be allowed within the site, for safety reasons.
Recommendation:
The department recommends negative consideration of Docket No. 05090003 SU for limestone
extraction: When mining and associated mining activities include blasting, they are so similar to an
industrial operation that they are not truly compatible with nearby residential uses, where the vast
majority of dwellings were in place long before the petitioner acquired a leasehold interest in the subject
premIses.
Additionally, blasting at the existing quarry has been problematic as evidenced by the complaints from the
surrounding neighborhoods, including Kingswood. While the petitioner has indicated that it may
implement some ofthe recommendations of its blasting consultant to improve the blasting impacts, staff
cannot recommend, at this time, the approval of a land use that may further exacerbate the blasting
impacts as the mining moves closer to the residents. Furthermore, the petitioner's proposed mining use,
so long as it includes the continuation of blasting operations, may be expected to have long-term negative
impacts on the appreciation of residential property values in the vicinity of the use as stated by the
remonstrators.
The department recommends positive consideration of Docket No. 05090004 SU for an artificial
lake, if Docket No. 05090003 is approved.
The Department also recommends the Board consider the following excerpts of Findings of Fact, as
submitted by the Kingswood neighborhood in their Statement of Remonstrance, submitted December 2,
2005:
"The proposed Special Use is not consistent with the character and permitted land use ofthe S-
l/Residence district and the CarmeVClay Comprehensive Plan because it is neither residential nor
low intensity commercial; rather, it is incompatible with residential housing, does not conform to
applicable development standards, and is of a high-intensity industrial nature."
and
"The Special Use will injuriously and adversely effect the adjacent land or property values and the
use/enjoyment of properties because of the following impacts to occur for a period of twenty-five
years or more: (a) the seismic and airblast impacts ofMM's conducting of blasting operations in
an area substantially closer to residential and associated property uses than at MM's existing mine,
(b) increased noise from rock loading and transport; (c) increased lime dust from blasting; (d)
increased risk of subsidence and the catastrophic losses of value in the affected homes and all
those that might be affected..."
Comprehensive Plan (excerpts)
1.4 LOW-INTENSITY RESIDENTIAL AREA POLICIES
1.4.1
Cluster style development in low-intensity residential areas is encouraged when:
. traditional single lot platting results in the destruction or modification of a major
environmental feature such as a hillside, significant stand of trees or creek bank, and
. the increased intensity in a particular area of the site in the cluster area has a
compatible transition with adjacent traditional low-intensity areas, and
. a homeowners association is established to be responsible for common areas, or
. The overall density of the cluster development, including its undeveloped or common
areas, should not exceed the permitted density of the underlying zoning.
1.4.2
Low-intensity neighborhoods should be served by and be accessible to:
. neighborhood commercial centers
. parks or playgrounds and
. schools
. bicycle and/ or pedestrian trails
. fire, police, public safety
2.6 LOW-INTENSITY COMMUNITYIREGIONAL EMPLOYMENT AREA POLICIES
2.6.1
Low-rise garden office and community-serving retail shall be encouraged to locate in low-
intensity community/regional areas
2.6.2
Low-intensity commercial areas should only be located where regional access is available;
including, the intersection of at least a principal arterial, or parkway, and secondary arterial or
parkway.
2.6.3
Direct area access from regional thoroughfare systems must be available on a major throughway
and must not have to pass through residential community areas on minor streets.
2.6.4
Low-intensity commercial developments should be buffered from residential communities
through the existence of at least one of the following:
. a divided secondary thoroughfare
. public and institutional buildings
. open space
. scale of design
2.6.5
Medium- and high-intensity commercial developments should only be permitted in low-intensity
Community jRegional Employment areas when the following characteristics exist:
. regional access consists of at least direct access from the site to an expressway.
. the high- and medium-intensity development site is adequately buffered
2.6.6
Industries, warehouses and commercial uses necessary to support such areas shall be located
within low intensity community j regional employment areas. Office support facilities for such
developments shall be considered a secondary use.
2.6.7
The community should encourage the concentration of industrial warehouse developments in
low intensity community j regional employment areas through:
. zoning decisions; and
. concentrated economic development
Comprehensive Plan
Figure 1
Carmel Clay Township Proposed Growth Policies Residential/Community Areas
INTENSITY CHARACTER AREA ADJACENCY REGIONAL SUPPORT INFRASTRUCTURE TRANSITION TO
LEVEL DESIGNATION ACCESS CIRCULATION SUPPORT REG/COMM EMP
AREAS
Neighborhood Nbhd. scale retail. Center Residential Community or Site could be within Site is at intersection of Site has direct access to reg Water, sewer, drainage Buffered from adjacent res. devel by
Commercial is 100k sq. ft. max on 10 Regional/Community residential comm areas. principal arterial or access without any traffic adequately in place or all of the following:
or less acres Employment Area Design is compatible, parkway and collector intrusion into adj nbhds. planned as part of - scale of bldg design
buffering adj. prop is development -landscaping of adj properties,
mandatory loadino
High Intensity Greater than 5 d.u.s per Residential Community or Could serve as a Site is adjacent to at Access to site directly from Water, sewer, drainage Buffered from any Reg/Comm Emp.
acre. Typically of a Regional/Community transition use between least a secondary arterial regional access. adequately in place or areas by at least one:
townhouse or multi- Employment Area ReglComm Emp Area or secondary parkway planned as part of - arterial or parkway
family building fonn. and medium or low development - publiclinst. bldg.
intensity residential areas - dedicated open space
. transition density
- scale of desion
Medium Intensity Moderately dense single Residential Community Could serve as transition Site is adjacent to at Access to site directly fonn Water, sewer, drainage Buffered from lower intensity
family detached building use between low density least a collector road. regional access adequately in place or ReglComm areas by at least one:
fonn between 3 and commlCBO/nbhd comm planned as part of - collector
Sd.u.s per acre uses and low or very low development - publiclinst. bldg.
density single family - dedicated open space
- transition density
- scale of desion
Low Intensity Low density single family Residential Community Could serve as No regional accessibility Standard hierarchy of Water, sewer, drainage Buffered from CBO or Nbhd comm
detached building fonn transltlon use between required access necessary to serve adequately in place or areas by at least OQe:
between 1.3 and 3.0 medium Inwnsity development planned as part of . collector
d.u's per acre residential and very development - publiclinst. bldg.
low intensity res. or as - dedicated oPen space
buffer between low int ..... ." - transition density
reaernD.. hbhd camm, - scale of design
CBO and very low
intensilv residential
Very Low Intensity Low density single family Residential Community Never adjacent to any No regional accessibility Standard hierarchy of Water, sewer, drainage Buffered from Nbhd comm areas by
detached building fonn Regional/ Community required access necessary to serve adequately in place or at least one:
between 1.0 and 1.3 Employment areas development planned as part of - collector
d.u's per acre development - publiclinst. bldg.
- dedicated open space
- transition density
- scale of des ion
Rural Residential Estate type housing on Residential Community Never adjacent to any No regional accessibility Standand hierarchy of No central water or sewer Never adjacent to ReglComm Emp
lots with at least one acre Regional/ Community required access necessary to serve required areas
of land Emolovment areas develooment
Comprehensive Plan
Figure 2
CarmeVClay Township Proposed Growth Policies RegionaVCommunity Employment Areas
INTENSITY CHARACTER AREA ADJACENCY REGIONAL SUPPORT INFRASTRUCTURE TRANSITION TO RESIDENTIAL
LEVEL DESIGNATION ACCESS CIRCULATION SUPPORT COMMUNITIES
U.S. 31 Corridor Offices greater than 5 Regional/Community Not adjacent to low Site is adjacent to Access to site direcijy Water, sewer, drainage Buffered from residential commercial by at least one:
fl Eg. Thomson Elec., Employment Area density residential expressway and from regional access. adequate to serve site - expressway/principal arterials
principal arterial or - publicflnstitutional building
principal parkway - dedicated open space
- transition density .
High Intensity Regional Retail Regional/Community Not adjacent to low Site is adjacent to Access to site directly Water, sewer, drainage Buffered from residential commercial by at least one:
greater than 250k sq. Employment Area density residential expressway and from regional access. adequate to serve site - expressway/principal arterials
ft , intense principal arterial or - publicflnstitutional building
commercial principal parkway - dedicated open space
- transition density
Medium Intensity Community retail Regional/Community Could be adjacent to Site is adjacent to Access to site is Water, sewer, drainage Buffered from residential commercial by at least one:
greater than 1 OOk sq. Employment Area low density expressway and directly from regional adequate to serve site - expressway/principal arterials.
ft. residential ~ secondary arterial access. - publicflnstitutional building
Low to mid rise office adequate buffer, or secondary - dedicated open space
3 - 5 floors transition parkway - transition density
Eg. Meridian Villages, - scale of bldg design
Graves Office Blda.
Low Intensity One to two story Regional/Community Could be adjacent Site is adjacent to Access to site direcijy Water, sewer, drainage Buffered from residential commercial by at least one: ..
"'; offices Employment Area to low density priociPal arteQ<ll or from regional 8(;Cess adeq4atety in::pJace or. -prim;:arteriallpkwy
I:: Office/showroom flex resid8ntiallf parkway and planned as part of - publiclinstitutional building
space, industry adequate buffer, secondary arterial development - dedicated open space
Warehouse transilion or Parklllay :: - transition density
Eg. Carmel Science - scale of b1dg design
and T echnoloov Park
Central Bus. District Downtown area of Regional/Community Is adjacent to Sites have access Access to site could be Water, sewer, drainage Buffered from residential commercial by at least one:
Canmel in vicinity of Employment Area residential. to Rangeline or from collector adequately in place or - scale of bldg. design
Rangeline and Main Development should Main SI. connecting into planned as part of - landscaping of rear parking
SI. be pedestrian scale. Rangeline or Main development
Building frontage to
street
Neighborhood Nbhd. Scale retail. Residential Community Site is within resid. Site is at Site has direct access Water, sewer, drainage Buffered from adjacent residential commercial by all of
Commercial Center is 100k sq. ft. Area comm areas. Design intersection of to regional access adequately in place or the following:
max on 10 or less is compatible with principal arterial or without any traffic planned as part of - scale of bldg. design
acres adjacent scale. parkway and intrusion into adjacent development -landscaping of rear parking, loading
Buffering of rear lot collector nbhds.
line with adjacent res.
is mandatorv
MARTIN MARIETTA MATERIALS. INC.
MUELLER PROPERTY SOUTH
SURFACE LIMESTONE MINING SPECIAL USE APPLICATION
Docket No. 05090003 SU
STATEMENT OF COMMITMENTS
COMMITMENTS CONCERNING THE USE OR DEVELOPMENT OF REAL
ESTATE MADE IN CONNECTION WITH PETITION FOR SPECIAL USE PERMIT
Martin Marietta Materials, Inc. ("Martin Marietta") makes the following COMMITMENTS
concerning the use and development of that parcel of real estate located near the southwest
comer of the intersection of 106th Street and Hazel Dell Parkway, in the City of Carmel,
Hamilton County, Indiana, which is more particularly described on Exhibit A attached hereto
and incorporated herein by this reference (the "Real Estate"). These commitments apply only to
the described Real Estate and to no other property owned or controlled by Martin Marietta.
Statement of COMMITMENTS:
I. General Operational Commitments.
A. Martin Marietta will develop an open pit, surface mining operation on the Real
Estate in accordance with the plans and submittals identified herein and the
commitments made herein.
B. The maps, submittals, and undertakings in the T AC responses shall be deemed the
application documents and shall bind Martin Marietta. Attached hereto as Exhibit
B is a master list of the maps and submittals governing the application and this
approval. In the event of a conflict between maps or submittals, the most recent
submittal shall be deemed to supersede all prior maps or submittals and to be
binding on Martin Marietta.
C. Prior to commencement of any work on the Real Estate, Martin Marietta shall
provide copies of approvals and permits from every governmental agency having
jurisdiction over the Real Estate and/or activities of Martin Marietta on the Real
Estate, including all submittals to such governmental agencies, and shall include
all specifications and restrictions contained in such submittals and approvals.
D. Overburden removal shall be completed during the hours of 7:00 a.m. to 8:00
p.m. between the months of November through March (except as necessary to
construct visual and noise barriers) and only on days other than Saturday, Sunday,
or State of Indiana holidays. Martin Marietta shall conduct all operations,
including overburden removal, in a manner so as to reasonably minimize noise,
dust, and light impact on surrounding properties.
INDY 1622966v.S
(ec.. ei vetf
(J 2 - 2 Z - 2oo(p
E. Martin Marietta's acceptance of the hours of operation set forth above is based on
the specific nature of the particular activities and site regulated by such hours and
shall not be deemed to establish a precedent or suggest that such hours are
reasonable for any other operations or any other site.
F. Martin Marietta shall use the existing entrance on 96th Street for haul trucks and
other heavy equipment accessing the Real Estate (except as it may be necessary to
access the Real Estate from 106th Street and Hazel Dell Parkway for berm
construction).
G. The berm specified along the perimeter of the property as identified on the Mine
Plan map shall be substantially complete within one hundred eighty (180) days of
the commencement of the removal of overburden from the Real Estate.
Completion shall include, but not be limited to, landscaping installation and
seeding. The Director is authorized to allow landscaping and seeding to be
deferred up to six (6) months to allow planting to be done at an appropriate time
seasonally.
H. Chain link type fences at least six (6) feet in height shall be required on the
perimeter of the Real Estate at a point not closer than the right-of-way line of any
street bordering the Real Estate where it is not contiguous to existing mine
property. Martin Marietta shall submit the proposed location and type of fence to
the Director for approval. The fence shall be maintained in a constant state of
good repair.
I. Any lights used for exterior illumination shall be directed away from adjoining
public and private property.
II. Blasting Practices.
A. General Requirements.
1. Martin Marietta shall comply with all applicable state and federal
regulations as they relate to blasting on the Real Estate.
2. All surface blasting on the Real Estate shall be limited to the period from
11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. on weekdays (except on holidays recognized by
the State ofIndiana when no surface blasting shall be allowed).
3. Martin Marietta shall endeavor in good faith to schedule surface blasts on
the Real Estate at the same approximate time of day.
4. Explosives used in a surface blast on the Real Estate shall not be detonated
at other times, except when necessary to detonate a loaded shot that could
not be detonated because of adverse weather or other conditions that could
not be reasonably foreseen by Martin Marietta, to maintain blasting safety,
or as required to comply with applicable governmental requirements.
2
INDY 1622966v.S
5. Martin Marietta shall notify the Director of the Department of Community
Services ("DOCS") of any surface blast that occurs outside the prescribed
times of day on the Real Estate within 24 hours of such event.
6. Individuals trained and experienced in the design and safe use of surface
blasting systems and licensed by the State of Indiana shall conduct all
surface blasting on the Real Estate.
7. Surface blasting on the Real Estate shall occur no closer than one thousand
eight hundred (1800) feet (measured horizontally) to any currently
existing occupied, single-family residential structure (excluding those
situated on the so-called "Mueller Property North" and "Mueller Property
South"), or within one hundred (100) feet, measured horizontally, of any
underground pipeline, unless the pipeline company authorizes, or confirms
in writing to the Director, a lesser distance, provided that such distance
shall in no event be less than twenty-five (25) feet.
8. Explosives shall not be stored on the Real Estate. Martin Marietta shall
use best practices when loading explosives on the Real Estate, and the
amount of explosives loaded into each hole shall be monitored to avoid
overloading a blast.
9. Fly rock from the Real Estate shall not leave the property owned or
controlled by Martin Marietta.
10. Martin Marietta shall monitor drilling to avoid overdrilling. If overdrilling
occurs, a crushed stone filler, either fine or coarse aggregate as
appropriate, shall be used. Stemming shall generally be done to a level
and in the manner recommended by Vibra- Tech in its letter of Feb. 8,
2006, in consultation with the blaster. MM shall keep such drilling and
blasting records as will permit the review of its drilling and stemming at
the annual review specified herein.
11. Martin Marietta MM shall use blast designs intended to increase frequency
levels above 20 hz. Blast design shall generally conform to the
recommendations of Vibra- Tech in its letter of Feb. 8, 2006, in
consultation with the blaster. Frequency levels and the achievement of
frequencies above 20 hz shall be one of the review criteria for the annual
review of Martin Marietta's practices specified herein.
12. The commitment herein to any blast design, drilling, or stemming
recommendation is made expressly subject to the legal right and the
duty of the blaster to vary the design to account for the circumstances of
each individual blast and shall not be deemed to restrict or interfere with
the exercise of the blaster's judgment and discretion, nor to relieve the
blaster of responsibility for the safe use of explosives.
B. Vibration and Air Overpressure Limits.
3
INDY 1622966v.5
1. The maximum peak particle velocities for any blast on the Real Estate
shall comply with: (1) the requirements of the rules and regulations of the
Indiana Department of Homeland Security, generally consistent with
Indiana Code 22-11-14, and the regulations promulgated thereunder
pursuant to 675 lAC 26; and (2) the frequency and vibration criteria
referenced in the former U.S. Bureau of Mines Report of Investigations
(RI) 8507, Structural Response and Damage Produced by Ground
Vibration from Surface Mine blasting (Siskind 1980), including the
frequency and vibration curve therein commonly referred to as the Siskind
Curve; and (3) shall not exceed .5 inches per second peak particle velocity
when measured at any existing single family residential structure not
owned by Martin Marietta.
2. The maximum air overpressure limits from blasting on the Real Estate
shall comply with the requirements of the rules and regulations of the
Indiana Department of Homeland Security, generally consistent with
Indiana Code 22-11-14, and the regulations promulgated thereunder
pursuant to 675 lAC 26, which are generally patterned upon the criteria
referenced in the former U.S. Bureau of Mines RI 8485, Structure
Response and Damage Produced by Airblast from Surface Mining
(Siskind 1980), as shown in the table below:
2 sec. duration
134 dB
133 dB
129 dB
105 dB
C. Monitoring Guidelines.
1. All overpressure on the Real Estate shall be monitored by Vibra- Tech
Engineering, Inc. ("Vibra- Tech"), who shall be responsible for reviewing
and analyzing the data. Provided, however, that if Martin Marietta
demonstrates compliance for a period of three years, it shall be entitled to
submit a plan for self-monitoring and the Director is authorized to approve
such plan if it contains substantially the same monitoring specified herein.
2. All blasts on the Real Estate shall be monitored by no less than six
properly calibrated seismographs recording horizontal and vertical ground
vibrations and air overpressure. The location of the monitoring stations
shall be acceptable to the Director. All equipment for the monitoring of
blasts will be maintained and calibrated by the monitoring company
exclusively.
3. The Director may require that additional monitoring stations be located, or
that existing monitoring stations be relocated to or from certain sites;
provided, however, that Martin Marietta shall not be required to provide
more than two additional monitoring locations at any given point in time.
4
INDY 1622966v.5
4. Records shall be kept by Martin Marietta for each surface blast on the
Real Estate and shall include the following:
a. the date, time and specific location of each blast;
b. the weather conditions including:
1. air temperature;
11. wind speed and direction; and
111. cloud cover.
c. identification of the closest residential structure, and approximate
distance from the blast;
d. the name and license number of the person conducting the blast;
and
e. the number of holes, diameter and depth of holes, the delay pattern
and design, and number of detonators used.
5. Martin Marietta shall maintain all records of blasting on the Real Estate
for a period not less than three (3) years.
6. Annually, within thirty (30) days of the anniversary of the issuance of this
permit, Martin Marietta shall provide a report of blasting on the Real
Estate to the Director for the preceding year. The blasting report shall
contain the date, time, total explosives, pounds per delay, and systems
used for each blast, together with a statement that the blasting complied
with all applicable laws and regulations.
D. Reportable Events.
1. Martin Marietta shall report to the DOCS any blast that exceeds .5 inches
per second, or otherwise does not comply with the Bureau of Mines
Siskind curve with respect to a combination of frequency and peak particle
velocity at any monitor adjacent to the Kingswood Neighborhood (such
blasts are hereafter referred to as "Reportable Events"). The report to
DOCS shall contain complete information with respect to such Reportable
Events, including blast layout and design, together with all seismic,
decibel, weather and other data gathered as part of Martin Marietta's
monitoring.
2. If three (3) or more peak particle velocity Reportable Events occur in any
calendar year, within ten (10) days of the third event Martin Marietta shall
submit all information on such Reportable Events to Vibra- Tech Inc. for
its review and analysis. Within twenty (20) days after such data is
5
INDY 1622966v.5
INDY 1622966v.5
submitted to Vibra-Tech, or at such time as is agreed to by DOCS, Martin
Marietta and Vibra- Tech shall meet with DOCS to discuss the Reportable
Events and any recommendations by Vibra- Tech with respect to blasting
patterns or practices to minimize Reportable Events. It shall not be
presumed that a change in blasting patterns or practices is necessary
merely because of such Reportable Events, but if Vibra- Tech reasonably
believes that a change is necessary to prevent frequent Reportable Events,
it shall recommend such changes in blasting practices, as it deems
necessary. These recommendations shall be discussed at the meeting with
DOCS, and Martin Marietta shall be entitled to suggest changes or
modifications to the recommendations that would make them less onerous
or more acceptable, and Vibra-Tech shall consider Martin Marietta's
comments in that regard. Within ten (10) days after the meeting, however,
Vibra- Tech shall finalize its recommendation and Martin Marietta agrees
to implement such commercially reasonable recommendations as
expeditiously as is commercially practicable, given the nature of the
recommendations.
3. Martin Marietta further agrees to grant Vibra- Tech access to its records
upon request by the DOCS for the purpose of Vi bra-Tech auditing them to
determine that Martin Marietta is complying with the reporting obligations
with respect to Reportable Events contained herein. Any audit report by
Vibra- Tech shall report only whether Martin Marietta has complied with
its reporting obligations herein and, if it has not, the instances and manner
in which it has not complied, including the information and data required
to be submitted by Martin Marietta for any Reportable Event.
4. In January of each year, Vibra-Tech shall review Martin Marietta's
blasting records and blasting programs for the prior year for the purpose of
making such recommendations as Vibra- Tech believes may reasonably be
necessary to reflect changes in the state of blasting technology that have
become commercially practicable. Martin Marietta agrees to consider the
recommended changes in good faith, and to implement those that do not
unreasonably interfere with its operations and are commercially
practicable, but otherwise shall be under no obligation to implement them
so long as it has less than three Reportable Events during the previous
calendar year.
5. An air overpressure measurement in excess of 120dB shall also be deemed
a Reportable Event and the occurrence of three such air overpressure
Reportable Events in a one hundred twenty day (120) period shall trigger
the requirements set forth above in subparagraph (2) above. Air
overpressure and vibration Reportable Events shall not be combined to
trigger the requirements of subparagraph (2) above.
6. In the event Vibra- Tech is unable to serve in the capacity described
hereinabove, Martin Marietta shall propose to DOCS another nationally
6
recognized engineer with experience in mining activities such as those
undertaken by Martin Marietta on the Real Estate. Such replacement shall
be reasonably acceptable to DOCS.
7. These specific blasting conditions in this Section II are intended to and do
constitute all of the commitments made by Martin Marietta with respect to
blasting and supersede all other provisions of these conditions with respect
to blasting.
III. Studies and Monitoring.
If the Director determines that additional study or monitoring of off-site impacts from
operations on the Real Estate is necessary, he or she shall notify Martin Marietta of the particular
matter needing study. Martin Marietta shall then present the Director with a proposal to address
the matter raised by the Director, at Martin Marietta's expense, within forty-five (45) days. If the
Director agrees with the proposal, Martin Marietta shall cause the study or monitoring to be
performed at its expense in the time frame set forth in the proposal and shall provide a report of
the results to the Director. If the Director does not agree with Martin Marietta's proposal, he or
she shall modify it or present Martin Marietta with his or her own proposal and Martin Marietta
shall pay the cost of such studies.
IV. Water Monitoring.
Martin Marietta will cooperate with the City Utilities Department (the "Department") in
the development of a water quality monitoring program acceptable to the Department to monitor
potential impacts from open pit mining on the Real Estate. Martin Marietta recognizes that this
may require different or additional wells or monitoring protocols than those currently called for
and agrees to pay for those that are made necessary by the mining approved herein, as
determined in the Department's reasonable judgment. Martin Marietta recognizes that the
Department may wish to conduct additional monitoring at its own expense and agrees to
cooperate with the Department to permit such additional monitoring. Further, Martin Marietta
shall grant the Department access to the monitoring points, flow meters, and related areas at all
reasonable times, subject to compliance with MSHA regulations. The Department shall also
have access to monitoring locations on an as needed basis for emergency purposes.
Additionally, Martin Marietta will notify the Department as to the date of the annual training as
prescribed by the Spill Prevention, Control, and Countermeasure Plan dated April 2003 such that
a Department representative can attend and/or participate in the training.
V. Buffers and Screening.
A. A buffer area of approximately 330 feet in width will be maintained from the
property line of the Real Estate on the south side of 106th Street as shown on the
Mine Plan. Berms or other activities allowed under previous permits in this area
continue to be allowed.
7
INDY 1622966v.5
B. All landscaping specified in any plans will be completed and maintained
consistent with the Landscaping Plan Map, a copy of which is on file in the Office
of DOCS, except as modified herein.
VI. Environmental.
A. All operations shall be conducted in conformance with the Federal Clean Air Act,
Clean Water Act, and applicable statutes and regulations implemented by the
Indiana Department of Environmental Management.
B. Martin Marietta shall maintain an approved Spill Prevention, Control, and
Countermeasures (SPCC) Plan for this facility, a copy of which is on file with the
Carmel Fire Department, Carmel Utilities and in the Office of DOCS.
C. Martin Marietta will maintain an approved Stormwater Management and Erosion
and Sediment Control Report for this facility, a copy of which is on file in the
Office of DOCS.
VII. Periodic Reports.
Martin Marietta shall submit a report (the "Report") within thirty (30) days of the five (5)
year anniversary date of this permit. The Report shall contain the following information with
respect to the Real Estate:
A. A Mine Plan for operations on the Real Estate consisting of:
1. an Operations Plan;
2. a Mine Plan map; and
3. a Reclamation Plan.
B. The Operations Plan for the Real Estate shall include the following:
1. the general geographic location of the current mining activity;
2. a description of the existing condition of the surface at the Mine, including
areas already mined or disturbed by mining, the existence of structures,
vegetation, and ground cover;
3. a description of the method of mining showing the method of extraction,
the sequence of mining, the disposition of materials on the Real Estate,
the use of haul routes, ingress and egress from public streets, and an
updated Blasting Plan including the following information:
a. monitoring locations;
8
INDY 1622966v.5
b. anticipated frequency of surface mine blasting;
c. anticipated range of blast sizes (in tons);
d. pre-blast notification (as requested by any interested parties within
a one mile radius of the operation); and
e. other general blast related information.
4. a description of the expected general direction of mining during the next
five (5) year period, along with the overall development ofthe mine.
C. The Operations Plan shall also include a description of the methods used or to be
used for preventing pollution from mining on the Real Estate, including but not
limited to air pollution, water pollution and noise pollution. If such methods are
contained in applications and/or permits issued to Martin Marietta, the submission
of such applications and permits to the Director shall satisfy this requirement. If
not, Martin Marietta shall provide the following:
1. current and future drainage and water controls, including discharge
volumes, water quantity and quality monitoring locations, monitoring
wells, and similar water quality and quantity matters;
2. air quality and dust control plans;
3. a complete Spill Prevention Control and Countermeasure (SPCC) plan,
updated as necessary, to insure adequate response to potential fuel spills
and releases from mining equipment;
4. emergency response measures in the event of a release that could impact
water quality;
5. a description of the employee training for response to spill and release
emergencies; and
6. a listing of all chemicals, quantities and storage locations for the facility.
9
INDY 1622966v.5
D. The Mine Plan map shall be presented on a base map stamped by a professional
licensed in Indiana and shall include the following:
1. a map of the location of the mine on the Real Estate including boundaries
of the Real Estate controlled by Martin Marietta;
2. a schematic outline and legal description of the Real Estate proposed for
mining for the life of the mine;
3. topographic contours, at two-foot intervals;
4. all areas of excavation, and, if applicable, all blasting areas on the Real
Estate;
5. all processing plant areas on the Real Estate;
6. all drainage features, water courses, water discharge points, water
impoundments, and ground water monitoring locations;
7. the name and address of the mining operation;
8. the mine manager's name and contact information;
9. the scale, a north arrow and a reference datum;
10. the name of the individual responsible for the preparation of the maps
and/or photographs; and
11. the date of preparation, and the record of work and/or revisions.
E. The Report shall also include:
1. a written description detailing any reclamation accomplished on the Real
Estate during the prior period;
2. results of studies or monitoring required by the Director or any other city,
county, state or federal agency to insure that the requirements of this
permit have been, are being, and will be satisfied; and
3. a certification by Martin Marietta that all mining, processing or
reclamation conducted during the reporting period was in conformance
with the permit and the approved plans, and that Martin Marietta is in
compliance with these commitments.
VIII. Reclamation.
Unless an alternative reclamation plan is approved, Martin Marietta shall reclaim the
10
INDY 1622966v.5
Real Estate as a lake. The Reclamation Plan shall consist of a graphic and written description of
the proposed Reclamation and shall:
A. include maps and cross sections that illustrate the final physical state of the
reclaimed land;
B. include a description of the manner in which the land is to be reclaimed, including
the disposition of topsoil, and a schedule for performing any reclamation and
planting and seeding plans that will commence during the next five year period;
C. comply generally with the version of the Guiding Principles of the Environmental
Stewardship Council for reclamation, grading and re-vegetation in effect at the
time the reclamation plan is submitted; and
D. provide a reclamation bond payable to the City in an appropriate and reasonable
amount that, in the Director's discretion, is sufficient to assure reclamation as
described in the application for Special Use. This bond will be kept in full force
until Martin Marietta completes the reclamation of the Real Estate, and shall be
subject to amendment from time to time as deemed necessary by the Director to
assure completion of the reclamation.
IX. Binding Effect.
These Commitments are binding on Martin Marietta as the current lessee and E. & H.
Mueller Development, LLC ("Mueller") as the current owner of the Real Estate, each subsequent
lessee and owner thereof, and each person acquiring an interest therein, unless modified or
terminated by the BZA or its successor pursuant to this paragraph. These Commitments may be
modified or terminated only upon (a) petition by Martin Marietta or its successor, and (b)
approval by the BZA after notice and hearing pursuant to the BZA's Rules of Procedure. Until
they expire or are modified or terminated pursuant to this paragraph, these Commitments shall be
enforceable by the City of Carmel or the BZA by injunctive relief, denial of building permits or
approvals in respect of the Real Estate, or other appropriate administrative or judicial remedy,
provided that any such relief, denial or other remedy is related to the Real Estate and to some
effects or harm from a breach or violation of these Commitments by Martin Marietta or Mueller.
These COMMITMENTS may be enforced jointly or severally by the Carmel/Clay Advisory
Board of Zoning Appeals and/or the City of Carmel Department of Community Services, but
shall create no private right of action. In any proceedings to modify or terminate these
Commitments, notice of hearing shall be given to the owners of property as required by the
Carmel Zoning Ordinance and the BZA's Rules of Procedure.
X. General.
A. In all matters where a representative of the City is given discretion to order
studies or take action, such representative shall do so reasonably and shall not
require the doing of any act or the expenditure of money for arbitrary or
capnclOus reasons.
11
INDY 1622966v.5
B. The approval under Approval Docket No. 05090003 SU is specific to the Martin
Marietta proposal for the surface mining of limestone on the Real Estate, and in
no way implies that the BZA has reviewed, condoned, or approved any aspect of
any other pending application for mining.
C. The denial of a future or other pending application to mine on the Real Estate
shall not be deemed a taking based on any theory that the Real Estate has become
unusable for any purpose other than mining by virtue of the grant of this Special
Use permit. Martin Marietta retains its right to challenge the denial of any future
application on any other ground or theory, including a taking theory not based on
the grant of the permit herein, whether based on state or federal laws or
constitutions, board rules, local ordinances, or otherwise.
D. Martin Marietta shall provide access to DOCS and the Department's employees
and its consultants, at all reasonable times, for purposes of monitoring compliance
with these commitments and any other responsibilities derived there from.
E. Unless expressly specified herein, nothing in these commitments shall supersede,
suspend, or otherwise modify any commitment or obligation undertaken by
Martin Marietta in any other proceeding or docket.
F. Whenever the term Martin Marietta is used herein it shall be deemed to refer to
the applicant herein and to any successor in interest to the Applicant.
COMMITMENTS contained in this instrument shall be effective upon the adoption of
Approval Docket No. 05090003 SU by the Carmel/Clay Advisory Board of Zoning Appeals and
shall continue in effect for as long as the above-described parcel of Real Estate remains the
subject of the Special Use Permit issued in said Approval Docket No. 05090003 SUor until such
. other time as may be specified herein.
The undersigned hereby authorizes the City of Carmel Department of Community
Services to record this Statement of Commitments in the Office of the Recorder of Hamilton
County, Indiana, upon final approval of Docket No. 05090003 SUo
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, Martin Marietta has caused the execution of this instrument
this day of February 2006.
MARTIN MARIETTA MATERIALS, INe.
By:
John J. Tiberi
Regional Vice President/General Manager
MidAmerica Region
12
INDY 1622966v.5
STATE OF INDIANA )
) SS:
COUNTY OF MARION )
Before me, a Notary Public in and for said County and State, personally appeared John 1.
Tiberi, the Regional Vice President/General Manager, MidAmerica Region, of Martin Marietta
Materials, Inc., who acknowledged the execution of the foregoing instrument and who, having
been duly sworn, stated that any representations therein contained are true.
WITNESS my hand and Notarial Seal this
day of February 2006.
Signature
Printed
NOTARY PUBLIC
My Commission Expires:
County of Residence:
13
INDY 1622966v.5
E. & H. MUELLER DEVELOPMENT,
LLC, an Indiana limited liability company
By:
Signature
Its:
Printed Name and Title
STATE OF INDIANA )
) SS:
COUNTY OF )
Before me, a Notary Public in and for said County and State, personally appeared
, the Managing Member, authorized agent of E. & H. Mueller
Development, LLC, an Indiana limited liability company, who acknowledged the execution of
the foregoing instrument and who, having been duly sworn, stated that any representations
therein contained are true.
WITNESS my hand and Notarial Seal this
day of February 2006.
Signature
Printed
NOTARY PUBLIC
My Commission Expires:
County of Residence:
This instrument was prepared by and after recordation should be returned to Zeff A. Weiss,
Ice Miller, One American Square, Box 82001, Indianapolis, Indiana, 46282-0200, Telephone
(317) 236-2319.
14
INDY 1622966v.5
EXHIBIT A
REAL EST ATE DESCRIPTION
Part of the North Half of Section 9, Township 17 North, Range 4 East of the Second Principal
Meridian in Clay Township, Hamilton County, Indiana, described as follows:
Commencing at the Northwest comer of Section 9, Township 17 North, Range 4 East of the
Second Principal Meridian in Clay Township, Hamilton County, Indiana; thence South 89
degrees 55 minutes 56 seconds East (assumed bearing) on the North line of said Section 9, a
distance of 1,336.18 feet to the Northwest comer of the East Half of the Northwest Quarter of
said Section 9, said comer being the PLACE OF BEGINNING of the within described real
estate; thence South 00 degrees 11 minutes 12 seconds West on the West line of said East Half
1,716.00 feet; thence South 89 degrees 55 minutes 56 seconds East parallel with the North line of
said Section 9, a distance of 1,336.01 feet to the West line of the East Half of said Section 9;
thence South 00 degrees 11 minutes 33 seconds West on the West line of said East Half 156.75
feet; thence South 89 degrees 55 minutes 56 seconds East parallel with the North line of said
Section 9, a distance of 919.68 feet to the Westerly line of real estate conveyed to the City of
Carmel, Indiana, by a documented titled "Certification of Clerk" recorded in the Office of the
Recorder at Hamilton County, Indiana, as Instrument Number 9709754848 (the following eight
courses being on the Westerly line of said real estate); 1.) thence North 08 degrees 36 minutes 31
seconds East 885.22 feet; 2.) thence North 02 degrees 53 minutes 53 seconds East 201.00 feet;
3.) thence North 08 degrees 36 minutes 31 seconds East 660.61 feet; 4.) thence North 29 degrees
48 minutes 29 seconds West 55.59 feet; 5.) thence North 80 degrees 51 minutes 37 seconds West
303.34 feet; 6.) thence North 89 degrees 03 minutes 10 seconds West 148.00 feet; 7.) thence
North 60 degrees 14 minutes 56 seconds West 57.55 feet; 8.) thence North 00 degrees 04
minutes 04 seconds East 16.50 feet to the North line of said Section 9, said point being 3,302.24
feet South 89 degrees 55 minutes 56 seconds East of the Southwest comer of said Section 9;
thence North 89 degrees 55 minutes 56 seconds West on said North line 1,966.06 feet to the
place of beginning, containing 96.921 acres, more or less.
INDY 1622966v.5
EXHIBIT B
MASTER LIST OF MAPS AND SUBMITTALS
. Area Map
. Zoning Map
. Mine Plan Map
. Reclamation Plan Map
. landscaping Plan Map
. Cross Section Map
. Erosion and Sediment Control Report
. Sound level Assessment
· Spill, Prevention, Control, and
Countermeasure (SPCC) Plan
· Measurement and Analysis of Blast
Induced Ground and Air Vibrations
INDY 1622966v.5
(Dated September 6, 2005)
(Dated September 6, 2005)
(Dated November 28, 2005)
(Dated November 28,2005)
(Dated November 28, 2005)
(Dated November 28, 2005)
(Dated September 2005)
(Dated September 2005)
(Dated April 2003)
(Dated November 30,2005)
-June 23, 2000
- rlr:.t':~"J'.';
C ~tf,. ,..~
. . 'iC~ . . '." '1'-,
. ; ...."P.
Letter of Interest
Martin Marietta Materials ("MMM") and Kingswood Homeowners Association ("KRA"), are desirous of
reaching a definitive agreement whereby MMM may obtain benefit of the minerals on certain real estate
depicted on Exhibit A attached hereto (the "Mueller Propertv"), and K.HA will support MMM's request
for a Special Use for the Mueller Property. This letter of interest will serve as the basis on which MMM
will cause a definitive agreement to be prepared for review and approval by KRA.
MMM recognizes that K.HA is willing to support a request for special use under the Cannel Clay Zoning
Ordinance ifMMM complies with the provisions of the definitive agreement.
It is further recognized by MMM that the expansion of mining related activities on the MMM andlor
Mueller proDerty south of 106[h Street may have yet undeterminable negative consequences on members
of the KHA. It is in the best interest ofMMM and KHA to define activities in advance so as to avoid any
future negative consequences.
Therefore MMM and KHA are prepared to move forward with KHA supporting MMM use of the Mueller
property for mining as defmed below.
1. Processing Plant. MMM has agreed to move the processing plant located on Hazel Dell. Subject to
approval by the Indiana Department of Natural Resources ("DNR"), the plant will be moved during
the winter of 2001/2002. Specifically, MMM will start the move on or before January, 2002. and all
current processing operations on this site will stop after such time. The plant will be moved to the
area east of Hazel Dell and just north of 106th Street. The existing tree buffer on Hazel Dell will be
maintained. This location will be further from any home in Kingswood than at present and will have
less of a noise impact on Kingswood. MMM will continue the same type of noise abatement that is
on the existing plant, including the use of on site benns and the use of strobe lights at night (subject to
approval by the proper governmental authorities) instead of audible backup signals.
This Letter ofInterest is entirely conditioned upon approval by the DNR of the relocation of the plant
as described above.
2. Surface Mining North of l06tll Street. All surface mining north of 106[h Street will be sand and
gravel only and will be a dredge operation. The overburden removal operation will be controlled to
occur only during daylight hours. The overburden removal, both south and north of 106lh Street will
be scheduled by MMM to occur during the months of November through March and no overburden
removal will o.ccur on Saturday or Sund,ay.
MMM agrees to first begin and complete, including reclamation, the dredge operation on the ground
nearest to the Kingswood adjacent property owners.
leb:maninmarielll1:APOleaeru212000:6I23IOO)
1
3. Activity South of l06tb Street. MMM and KHA both recognize the importance of reaching an
agreement that provides a global. long-term resohJtion to the tension created by conducting a mining
operation in close proximity to a residential area. Furthermore MMM recognizes that these concerns
include noise emissions and blasting vibrations from its operations north of 96th Street.
In recognition of the above, MMM agrees that no more than two of the asphalt plants south of 961h
Street will be relocated north of 96th Street, and such plants will be relocated at the two northeast
locations on MMM owned land (as shown on Exhibit A). Sound buffering sufficiently adequate so
that sound levels at the southern boundary of Kingswood as measured by a noise level study to be
conducted by MMM in the summer of 2000 at MMM expense will be no greater after the asphalt
plant relocation. MMM will cause a twenty (20) foot high tree topped berm to be constructed along
the south side of 106th Street. This berm will be constructed between November 2000 and March
2001.
In addition, irrespective of any agreement with the City, MMM will not allow any asphalt plant to be
located on the MueUer Pro,perty and/or MMM owned land north of the current Blue Woods Creek
location. MMM will insure that any development on the Mueller Propertv arid/or MMM owned land
South of l06th Street and North of the current Blue Woods Creek location will have minimal adverse
noise, dust, odor, or smoke impact on Kingswood subdivision. MMM is going to request zoning
approval to build a contractors office and shop on eight (8) acres in the southeast comer of the
intersection of Gray Road and l06th Street. KHA agrees to support this request. subject to review of
the plans; said support will not unreasonably be withheld.
MMM agrees that it will require all trucks entering or exiting public streets from its lands to have
covered beds by January, 2001.
4. NOD mineral extraction Activities. MMM will not engage in any non mineral extraction activities,
including but not limited to asphalt plants. ready-mix concrete plants, or any other non mineral
operation on the Mueller Pl'Ol)erty, either north or south of 106th Street. The dredge operation is not
considered a processing operation.
MMM will not engage in or permit the establishment of any new non mineral extraction activities. as
described above, on MMM owned land unless such activities are first duly approved under the Cannel
Clay Zoning Ordinance. For example, MMM agrees that if in the future any additional asphalt plant
is proposed to be located on MMM owned land, a petition for special use or other zoning approval
must be submitted to the Board of Zoning Appeals of the City of Cannel and/or Clay Township before
such use may be established.
MMM will take all necessary and reasonable steps to mitigate the creation of dust and mud on Gray
Road at the entrance to its land between 96th and l06th Streets, which may include, among other
options, paving portions of the access road or adding acceleration and deceleration lanes to Gray
Road.
[eb:martinmariel",:APOJeuer6212000:6/2J/OO J
2
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!
5. Blasting Practice of Martin Marietta Materials.
II. MMM will commit to minimize the detrimental impact of blasting on the Kingswood
neighborhood by holding surface and underground blasting under certain limits. The actual
limits are as follows:
The average blast readings from a calendar year will not exceed the average from
calendar year 1999. The average readings for 1999 were 110 dB and 0.10 in/sec. for surface
shots and were 92dB and 0.08 inlsec for underground shots. Separate averages will be kept for
underground and for surface shotS'. The results of any given year will be presented to the KHA
Board of Directors in January of the following year and a representative of Martin Marietta
Materials will attend an annual meeting of the KHA to answer questions if requested. If Martin
Marietta Materials is over any of the averages at the end of the year, then Twenty-Five
Thousand Dollars ($25,000.00) will be paid to the KHA.
In addition the ground vibration from all blasts will be held under 25% of the
Government Frequency chart as measured at the to-be-determined monitoring station in
Kingswood.(see Exhibit A). The maximum airblast reading will be no greater than 125dB as
measured at the monitoring station. If either of these levels is breached MMM will pay Five
Thousand Dollars ($5,000.00) to KHA for each incident.
Blasting Limits Chart
Yearly
Average
(subject to further definition in the defmitive agreement)
Any Blast Pct. Of Blasts
Maximum Above Avg.
Surface Blasts
Ground Vibration 0.1 inlsec.
Air Blast nOdBL
25% of Chart
125dBI
25%
25%
Underground Blasts
Ground Vibration 0.08 inJsec.
Air Blast 92dBL
25% of Chart
12SdBl
25%
25%
These limits have been established to reduce the environmental impact on Kingswood residents while
allowing efficient operation of MMM's mining operation. If MMM operates with tighter standards in
these areas anywhere in the United States, these tighter standards will be adopted at this Carmel operating
location.
A. Underground mining north of l06th Street will be no closer than 500 ft to any house in
Kingswood. Underground mining north of l06lh Street will not start before 2025.
B. MMM will blast both surface and underground between the hours of 10:00 A.M. and 6:00
P.M.~ Monday through Friday. The only exception to this practice would be related to safety
concerns.
C. MMM will arrange for a monitor to be placed in Kingswood. This machine or a
replacement will be operating for all blasts.
r eb: martinmarieaa:APOlelter6212000:6I23IOO)
3
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D. MMM will arrange for an inspection by an engineer of each KHA member's home that
requests such inspection. This will occur within six (6) months of the signing of the definitive
agreement. The purpose of this inspection is to provide a reference point to determine if future
blasting by MMM causes any damage to such homes.
The terms of paragraph 5 shall be further reviewed and are subject to approval by the entire KHA
Board of Directors before a definitive agreement is executed.
6. Successors. MMM understands that all' parts of any agreement with the KHA will be binding on
Martin Marietta Materials and any assignment ofMMM rights as a result of a sale or other transfer of
interest or assignment and will be binding on the new operator. Said definitive agreement shall be
verified and filed with the Hamilton COWlty Recorder.
7. Final Plans and Reclamation. MMM will reclaim the Mueller Property north of 106th Street as a
lake with the foIlowing: (a) slopes of no more than three (3) to one (1); (b) a minimum distance of
150 ft from the property line of Kings wood; and, (c) domestic grasses will be established with no less
than 80% coverage of any square yard. At a completion of mining in this area, MMM will convey to
each adjacent property owner good and marketable title to the buffer (from back property line of such
owner to the waterline of the lake) free and clear of all liens, easements, encumbrances or other
restrictions to be deeded to the owner at a cost not to exceed One Hundred Dollars ($100.00). MMM
will cause a right-of-way to be deeded to the county along the northern edge of l06th Street to be large
enough to allow for a walkway from Hazel Dell Parkway to connect to the park south of Kingswood.
All reclamation will comply with the recent guidelines adopted by the Indiana Mineral Aggregates
Association.
MMM recognizes that there are two different areas, the land on the east of Kingswood and the land on
the south of Kingswood. On the East Side, Martin Marietta Materials will remove the berm and
reclaim this property within six (6) months of moving the processing plant. As soon as possible. but
no longer than twelve (12) months after the completion of the benn removal, fence removal, and land
reclamation, MMM will deed the buffer area behind the adjacent property owners' lots to these
owners. On the south side, Martin Marietta Materials will erect a black vinyl coated chain link fence
which will not include a barbwire or similar barrier SO-ft from the property line. At the end of mining,
the fence will be removed and the land will be reclaimed to the above standards. Martin Marietta
Materials, during this reclamation, will not disturb the 50-ft area north of the fence. Within twelve
(12) months following the completion of reclamation, MMM will deed the buffer area behind those
owners' lots to those owners. MMM will grant an easement to each such owner to use and improve
the 50-ft area during the mining of the property.
MMM will supply an Exhibit C to be attached to each final agreement that will show the land to be
deeded to each adjacent property owner.
8. Site Plans. In addition, MMM will provide a site plan, which will indicate the equipment and
structures which wiIl be located on the ,Mueller Property during the sand and gravel mining operation.
MMM will also provide a site plan showing the expected condition and appearance of the Mueller
Property after reclamation; said site plan shall be attached to the definitive agreement.
9. Lake accesses. In the event part or all of the lakes created adjacent to Kingswood become available
to the general public, then the adjacent property owners will be granted private access. MMM agrees
(eb:martinmarielra:APOlelter6212000:6I23IOO]
4
to provide access to the public, to the waterline of the lake. from the public park site to the western
portion of the Mueller Property.
10. Lake. MMM will not undertake any actions to drain the lake created, nor to reduce the water level.
11. Funding. Martin Marietta Materials will pay to each adjacent property owner the sum of One
Hundred Fifty Dollars ($IS0.00) per year for ten (10) years. This money is to be used for
maintenance purposes on the ground to be deeded to such owner at the discretion of the owner.
12. Environmental Remediation. With respect to the Operations, MMM shall be responsible for all
environmental matters arising therefrom and shall indemnify and hold harmless KHA and all adjacent
property owners with respect to any losses, claims or costs arising therefrom.
13. Pending Litigation. Upon execution of a definitive agreement, KHA agrees to dismiss, with
prejudice, against both MMM and the City of Carmel, Indiana, the cause currently pending in the
Hamilton Superior Court No.3, Cause No. 29D03-000S-CP-334.
14. Attorneys Fees. MMM shall reimburse KHA up to Five Thousand Dollars ($S,OOO.oo) for its attorney
fees incurred in negotiating this Letter and Agreement.
15. Roundabout. MMM agrees that it shall donate to the City of Carmel, Indiana, sufficient right-of-
way, generally on the south side of the intersection at 106lh Street and Gray Road, to permit the
construction of a roundabout at such intersection.
16. This letter of interest shall be null and void and the parties shall cease their work on a definiti ve
agreement ifany of the following events occur.
a) KHA fails to approve the provisions of Section three (3) hereinabove within ten (10) days ofthe
date of this Letter of Interest:
b) KHA fails to approve the provisions of the blasting practices outlined in Section 5 hereinabove. or
alternatively, parties fail to reach agreement on alternative blasting practices within ten (10) days
ofthe date of this Letter of Interest; and
c) The parties fail to execute a definitive agreement on or before August 23, 2000.
17. Prior to July 31, 2000, the site plans described in Section Eight (8) shall be provided by MMM to
KHA.
18. The parties must reach agreement on the current noise level from the two (2) asphalt plants prior to
execution ofa . 'iVe ement or this Letter of Interest is null and void. ~
By:
obert ur ong
Vice President - General Manager
Indian~iS~ ~,
Date: ~ '-:/ tu '-'
Icb:maninmarieua:AI>Olellcr62I 2000:612JIOO}
By:
Printed Name:
Date:
Printed Name:
;;~:~~C~ ~&~~N
Date: ~~c.:v
. By: ~v?S3 L ./ ~
Printed Name: .~1 t?-~~":'"
Date: (,. --'-~ - 01\
MUELLER REPRESENT A TIVE
CITY OF CARMEL, INDIANA
B~___ /?..--:.J)
James prainard, Mayor
Date: , "-2 ;'. 0-6
I eb:m1rtinmllr1etla:APOleuer6212000:6l23/00I
6
ENVIRONMENTAL GROUP. INC.
--_.~._._--
ENGINEERING. ARCHITECTURE & SURVEYING. P.C.
November 22, 2005
Mr. Michael Hollibaugh
Director
Division of Community Services
City of Cannel
One Civic Square
Carmel, IN 046032
Re: Comments to Department of Community Services, City of Carmel
Regarding Review of Martin Marietta Materials, Inc.,
Response to T AC Comments Dated November 9, 2005
Dear Mr.~,
This letter summarizes Spectra's technical comments regarding our continuing review of Martin
Marietta's Mueller Property South Surface Limestone Operation submittals. The following
comments and questions were generated after our review of Martin Marietta's November 9,2005
response to the September 26, 2005 Technical Advisory Committee meeting (T AC) comments.
Comment 1: The response to Spectra's T AC Comment I regarding the SPCC Plan update is
sufficient.
Comment 2: The response to Spectra's T AC Comment 2 regarding the SPCC Plan update log
page is sufficient.
Comment 3: As explained in the November 9, 2005 submittal, the Additional Infonllation for
the Mueller Property South Surface Limestone Operation and Artificial Lake submittal expands
upon the original application materials submitted in 2002. The response goes on to state in a
detailed list how the additional information modifies the original application and how the two
submittals are related. The text offered explaining how the two submittals are related appears
sufficient to tie the two plans together. However, Spectra reserves its final recommendation to
the City of Carmel Division of Community Services (DOCS) regarding the continuity of the two
submittals until such time that a revised Additional Infonnation submittal containing all of the
modified text and plan updates is provided for review and comment.
Comment 4: The map updates and addition to the Notes portion of each map are sufficient to
convey to the reader that the existing North Indianapolis limestone excavation area will move
north toward and will eventually include the Mueller south property.
CORPORATE OFFICE: 19 BRITISH AMERICAN BLVD. . LATHAM. NY 12110.518782-0882. FAX: 782-0973
---- - ... .........---~~----
POUGHKEEPSIE OFFICE: ONE CIVIC CENTER PLAZA . SUITE 401 . POUGHKEEPSIE, NY 12601 .845454-9440 . FAX: 845454-9206
.- .-.--.--------.......---..-....-.-.--.--...
SYRACUSE OFFICE: 307 S. TOWNSEND STREET. SYRACUSE, NY 13202. 315471-2101 . FAX: 315471-2111
UTICA OFFICE: 100 Lomond Court. UTICA. NY 13502.315266-0129. FAX: 315 266-0192
WWW.SPECTRAENV.COM
Mr. Michael Hollibaugh
November 22, 2005
Page 2
Comment 5: Spectra's T AC comments state that, "The method of mining, particularly blasting
and advancement of surface limestone benches on the Mueller South property, is not described in
the Additional Infonnation submittal. Similarly, the original application materials, dated 2002,
merely state that blasting will occur on the site. Neither document describes how blasting will be
conducted in a manner protective of community character and adjacent properties."
Blasting Study
Martin Marietta's response to TAC comments explains that Vibra-Tech, a blasting and vibration
consulting finn, has completed a detailed vibration study/analysis for thc N0l1h Indianapolis
facility, and that the study shows that Martin Marietta can develop the Mueller Property South as
proposed while remaining below all applicable blasting limits. The response document goes on
to state Martin Marietta will propose a blasting limit that meets all blasting requirements as part
of their application approval commitments. Additionally, Martin Marietta states that they will
propose an extensive monitoring and reporting system for ground vibration and air blast in the
application approval commitments. It is unclear whether MM has undertaken this study and an
additional isoseismic study on the entire MM operation including mining properties not subject
to BZA approval. If that isoseismic study were done, it would include recommendations on
improvements in blasting and blast design to lessen the impact upon the neighboring residents,
specifically Kingswood, who have registered numerous complaints with the DOCS. Therefore,
it is critical to an assessment of future impact upon Kingswood and other residential properties
that MM is following the recommendations of its own blasting consultants.
Assessment of Blasting Impacts
Given the concerns of the community over the potential impacts of surface mine blasting on
community character and prope11y, it is critical that Martin Marietta describe how the existing
surface limestone operation will be expanded into Mueller South while at the same time
protecting community character and the integrity of adjacent prope11ies. As all submittals
currently stand, (original application, additional information, and response to TAC comments);
there is no specific, detailed discussion of blasting-related topics. There needs to be an
assessment of how MM will mitigate impacts (vibration and air blast) to residents as MM
progresses north from their current location into Mueller South. Furthermore, MM needs to
explain what will be different in the future while mining Mueller South that will not cause
continuing complaints from Kingswood and other residential developments. MM needs to
project and discuss peak pm1icle velocities and air blast levels that they propose at the
Kingswood property line that will mitigate impacts.
Blasting Plan
While not teclmically called a Blasting Plan, we believe that it is imp0l1ant for MM to educate
and to explain to DOCS, BZA, and the public, the basic components of their approach to blasting
at Mueller South. Such a basic plan should include the following:
- vibration and air blast threshold limits
monitoring locations
anticipated frequency of surface mine blasting
anticipated range of blast sizes (in tons)
pre-blast notification
I
Mr. Michael Hollibaugh
November 22, 2005
Page 3
Specific blast-related information must be pmt of the Mine Plan for the Mueller Property South.
To summarize, the application needs to be supplemented with additional infonnation on blasting
and blasting issues. Blasting is the primary focus of public concern and complaints. To
adequately assess whether there will be any detrimental impacts to the residents of Carmel as
mining progresses into Mueller South, MM should provide the following: (I ) all blasting studies
including any isoseismic studies as noted above that would support this application, (2) an
assessment of blasting impacts, and (3) and basic information that we refer to as a blasting plan.
Without such information the application does not contain sufficient information to make a
recommendation to the DOCS for either approval or denial of the application for a special use
vanance.
Comment 6: To reiterate, Spectra's original comment at TAC was,
"The Erosion and Sediment Control Report, dated September, 2005, is in-part
entitled "Surface Limestone Operation." Section 6.1 of the report; however,
where sedimentation controls are described, discusses primarily sedimentation
controls in the sand and gravel operation and not the limestone operation. In fact,
Section 6.1 of the Surface Limestone Operation Report is almost word-for-word
identical to Section 6.1 of the June 2005, Sediment and Erosion Control Report
submitted in support of the Mueller South Sand and Gravel application. The
applicability of the September 2005 Erosion and Sediment Control Report to the
limestone operation is not clear. The report discusses almost exclusively various
sand and gravel operating scenarios with little or no mention of the development
of a limestone operation on the Mueller South property. Since the approved sand
and gravel operation is already sUPPOlted by an Erosion and Sediment Control
Report, the most recent Erosion and Sediment Control Report should be tailored
specifically to the limestone operation."
Martin Marietta's response is that the Erosion and Sediment Control Plan for the sand and gravel
and limestone operations are very similar because both operations are occurring at the same time
on the same tract of land. Where this is true, the Erosion and Sediment Control Plan should say
as much. As it stands now, the Erosion Plan for the limestone operation barely mentions the
limestone operation. Spectra recommends that the entire response provided by Martin Marietta
in the response T AC comments document be inc1udedat the beginning of Section 6.1 in a
revised Erosion and Sediment Control Plan for the Mueller Propelty South Limestone Operation.
Comment 7: Martin Marietta's response states that the Mueller Property South Sand and Gravel
approval does not prevent Mmtin Marietta from mining below the water table. Where this
statement mayor may not be true, the approved mine plan calls for drainage swales to convey
groundwater and storm water runoff from the Mueller South property into the North Indianapolis
facility. The purpose of these drainage structures is to create dry working conditions for
excavation equipment like front-end loaders and haul trucks, and to allow for the proposed "dry"
reclamation of the site. Mining below the water table in an artificially created waterbody is not
;-
Mr. Michael Hollibaugh
November 22, 2005
Page 4
part of the Mueller South Sand and Gravel approval. For example, the Sound Level Study
supporting the Mueller South Sand and Gravel Operation models noise projections only for
excavation equipment that operate in dry working conditions (e.g. haul trucks, front-end loaders,
etc.). Equipment that can excavate material from below the water table in wet conditions (e.g.
clam shell excavators, suction dredges, etc.) is not modeled in the Sound Level Study for the
Mueller South Sand and Gravel Operation.
To reiterate, the Mueller South Sand and Gravel Operation has been approved as a "Dry" sand
and gravel operation, where stonn water runoff and groundwater discharge is to drain into the
existing North Indianapolis Limestone Operation and/or Blue Woods Creek. In order to ensure
that the Mueller South Sand and Gravel Operation is conducted in accordance with the current
approval for the excavation activity, Martin Marietta should commit to maintaining a five (5)
foot separation from the water table (i.e. five (5) feet above the water table) in all excavation
areas prior to the relocation of Blue Woods Creek.
Comment 8: The response concerning the need for a NPDES pennit is sufficient.
Comment 9: Regardless of Martin Marietta's involvement with the City of Carmel Utilities
Department regarding water supply issues, the reclamation issue raised by Spectra needs to be
discllssed and understood prior to Spectra presenting its recommendations to DOCS.
Specifically, the issue is whether or not the development of the surface limestone operation south
of 106111 street will adversely impact the anticipated reclamation lake proposed for the Mueller
North Sand and Gravel Operation. Given the proximity of the reclamation lake to the
Kingswood neighborhood, the integrity of the reclamation lake is of critical importance in the
review of the current application. As it stands now, Martin Marietta has not answered this
question.
It is also inappropriate, as Martin Marietta states, that, "Martin Marietta.. . anticipates that the
Depmtment [the City Utilities Depaltment] will advise Martin Marietta or the Department of
Community Services if additional infonnation is needed." It is not the province of the
Department of Utilities to discuss and review mine plan and reclamation plan issues. Spectra is
the City's mining consultant, and as such, it is our responsibility to review all aspects of mining-
related applications. A critical part of the review process is an assessment of the efficacy of
proposed reclamation plans, as well as how the development and/or change in use of an adjacent
facility will influence an approved reclamation plan (e.g. the Mueller NOlth reclamation lake).
Martin Marietta states that through the course of two previous applications they have worked
with the City Utilities Department to develop groundwater models designed to show the impact
of the development of both the Mueller South and Mueller North Sand and Gravel Operations.
This statement implies that all potential impacts and changes to the aquifer have already been
assessed by virtue of the previous modeling efforts. While the applicability of the previous
modeling efforts to the current application is questionable, there is no discussion in the limestone
application referencing it to the previous groundwater models.
Becallse the limestone application is devoid of references to hydrogeology, reviewers of the
limestone operation application have no basis for understanding that hydrogeology-related issues
Mr. Michael Hollibaugh
November 22, 2005
Page 5
may have been addressed in application materials for the Mueller North/South Sand and Gravel
Operations. If previous modeling efforts are germane to the current application, then Martin
Marietta should provide text in the mine plan that summarizes the previous groundwater
modeling efforts, and explain how the results of the previous models are applicable to the current
application.
Summary
We have provided a number of comments to help improve the application, and we believe that
MM can amend or supplement their application so that you and the BZA can make an informed
decision as to the special use variance.
However, we repeat our earlier comments pertaining to Comment 5:
In summary, the application needs to be supplemented with additional
information on blasting and blasting issues. Blasting is the primary focus of
public concern and complaints. To adequately assess whether there will be any
detrimental impacts to the residents of Carmel as mining progresses into Mueller
South, MM should provide the following: (I) all blasting studies including any
isoseismic studies as noted above that would support this application, (2) an
assessment of blasting impacts, and (3) and basic information that we refer to as a
blasting plan.
Without such information the application does not contain sufficient
information to make a recommendation to the DOCS for either approval
or denial of the application for a special use variance.
We are available to discuss our comments with you at your convenience. As always, we
appreciate working with the City of Carmel on these important issues.
Sincerely,
SPECTRA ENVIRONMENTAL GROUP, INC.
rego . Sovas, P.E.
Vice President of Governmental Affairs
J CK/fc
0:\200 J \0 J 233\Applications\Muellersoulh limestone I.doc
ENVIRONMENTAL GROUP. INC.
ENGiNEEr/ING. ARCHITE-CrURE & SURVEYING. PC.
December 9,2005
Mr. Michael Hollibaugh
Director
Division of Community Services
City of Carmel, City Hall
One Civic Square
Cannel, IN 046032
Re: Presentation of Department of Community Services Comments
Regarding Review of Martin Marietta Materials, Inc. (MM),
Mueller Property South Surface Limestone Operation and Artificial Lake
Application To the BZA, December 12, 2005
Dear Mr.~:
This letter summarizes Spectra Environmental Group, Inc. 's (Spectra) technical comments to the
City of Carmel Department of Community Services (DOCS) during the December 12, 2005
Board of Zoning Appeals (BZA) meeting. Spectra's comments will. provide to the BZA a
summary of our review of Martin Marietta Materials, Inc., Mueller Property South Surface
Limestone Operation and Artificial Lake application documents. For ease of understanding, our
format will include the original comments, MM's response, and our assessment of that response.
Where possible, multiple comments have been grouped into a single category for discussion.
Spectra's summary is as follows:
1. Comments Regarding the Spill Prevention. Control. and Countermeasures Plan (SPCC):
Original Comments: The SPCC Plan did not specifically mention that it covers and is.. the
controlling document over excavation activities on Mueller Property South. The plan also
did not state whether or not it is the Mueller South sand and gravel operation that is covered
by the SPCC plan or the Mueller South Limestone operation. The Updates portion of the
plan was also not complete.
Response: The SPCC Plan has been appropriately updated. There are no additional concerns
or comments.
2. Comments Regarding Continuity of the Application Materials. Including Maps and Plans:
Original Comments: The Additional Information submittal for the Mueller Property South
Surfa~~_!:!~esto~~__9l'.eration and A~ific_ial. Lake, dated Sept~_tp~e.!_}QQ~L is intended!9
-.~~,-"-,------~..,,.. ....m CORPORATE OFFICE: 19 BRITISH AMERrCAN BLVD. . LATHAM, NY 12110.518782'-0882. FAX: 518 782~0973
..---------.--POt.iGHKEEPsiE:?FF~.c<?B~_~~~~~ <.:~t_J.~~tA . SUITE 4?~~?~'?~~~~~S.IE:~y! 2601-;845 454-9440 . FAX: 845 45<!.~~--:~_.~~==
...--_.' _..---.SVRACUSE OFFICE: 307 S. TOWNSEND STREET. SYRACUSE. NY 13202. 3\5471-2\01 . FAX, 315471-2111
UTICA OFFICE: Court .
Mr. Michael Hollibaugh
December 9, 2005
Page 2
expand upon the original application materials submitted in 2002. The Additional
Information, however, does not reference the original 2002 application materials or explain
in any way how the current information expands on or modifies the original application.
There needs to be better continuity between the two submittals.
Furthermore, the Additional InfOlmation submittal explains that the eXlstmg surface
limestone operation will be extended to the north to encompass Mueller Property South
without providing any maps or plans to show the expansion. All plans, cross-sections and
plates should indicate that that existing operation will be extended to the nOlth to incorporate
Mueller Property South.
Response: Martin Marietta's response states in a detailed list how the additional information
modifies the original application and how the two submittals are related. The text offered
explaining how the two submittals are related appears sufficient to tie the two plans together.
The map updates and addition to the Notes pOltion of each map are sufficient to convey to
the reader that the existing North Indianapolis limestone excavation area will move north
toward and will eventually include the Mueller South property.
3. Comments Regarding the Erosion and Sediment Control Report. September 2005:
Original Comments: The report discusses almost exclusively various sand and gravel
operating scenarios with little or no mention of the development of a limestone operation on
the Mueller South property. Since the approved sand and gravel operation is already
sUPPOlted by Erosion and Sediment Control Report, the most recent Erosion and Sediment
Control Report should be tailored specifically to the limestone operation.
The Sediment and Erosion Control Plan included with the Additional Infonnation submittal
describes a mining scenario, prior to the relocation of Blue Woods Creeks, where stonn
water and groundwater drainage into the existing limestone operation is not yet possible (due
to the presence of Blue Woods Creek). As a result, a series of sediment basins and sumps
will be constructed as sediment control devices. From the proposed grades of these sediment
basins, sand and gravel excavation in the northwestem portion of the Mueller South property
will occur at elevations below the inverts of the sediment basins. Developing the site in this
manner may create a situation where storm water collects in low areas of the excavation,
which then will have to be pumped into the sediment basins. While this operating scenario
may be manageable for precipitation events, the operating scenario becomes unmanageable
once the excavation is lowered to the water and below. Once the water table is encountered,
there will either be continuous pumping of groundwater into the sedimentation basins to
maintain dry excavation conditions, or material will have to be excavated from below the
water table. Operating the sand and gravel operation in this manner is not permitted under
the current approval. The Mueller South sand and gravel operation has been approved as a
"Dry" sand and gravel operation, where stonn water runoff and groundwater discharge is to
drain into the existing limestone operation.
Mining below the water table in an artificially created waterbody is not part of the Mueller
South Sand and Gravel approval. For example, the Sound Level Study supporting the
Mr. Michael Hollibaugh
December 9,2005
Page 3
Mueller South Sand and Gravel Operation models noise projections only for excavation
equipment that operate in dry working conditions (e.g. haul tl1lcks, front-end loaders, etc.).
Equipment that can excavate material from below the water table in wet conditions (e.g. clam
shell excavators, suction dredges, etc.) is not modeled in the Sound Level Study for the
Mueller South Sand and Gravel Operation.
Spectra recommends to DOCS that to ensure the Mueller South sand and gravel operation is
conducted in accordance with the current approval for the excavation activity, Martin
Marietta must commit to maintain a five (5) foot separation from the water table (i.e. five (5)
feet above the water table) in all excavation areas prior to the relocation of Blue Woods
Creek.
Response: Martin Marietta has committed to keep all Mueller Property South excavations
north of Blue Woods Creek five (5) feet above the water table until Blue Woods Creek is
relocated. Spectra has informed DOCS that this commitment satisfies our concerns.
4. Comments Related to Hydrogeology:
Original Comments: The question of whether or not the development of the surface
limestone operation south of 106111 Street will adversely impact the anticipated reclamation
lake proposed for the Mueller North Sand and Gravel Operation was asked during Spectra's
review. Given the proximity of the reclamation lake to the Kingswood neighborhood, the
integrity of the reclamation lake is of critical importance.
Martin Marietta states that through the course of two previous applications, they have worked
with the City Utilities Department to develop groundwater models designed to show the
impact of the development of both the Mueller South and Mueller North Sand and Gravel
Operations. This statement implies that all potential impacts and changes to the aquifer have
already been assessed by virtue of the previous modeling effods. While the applicability of
the previous modeling efforts to the current application is questionable, there is no discussion
in the limestone application referencing it to the previous groundwater models.
Because the limestone application is devoid of references to hydrogeology, reviewers of the
limestone operation application have no basis for understanding that hydrogeology-related
issues may have been addressed in application materials for the Mueller North/South Sand
and Gravel Operations. If previous modeling efforts are germane to the current application,
then Madin Marietta should provide text in the mine plan that summarizes the previous
groundwater modeling efforts, and explain how the results of the previous models are
applicable to the current application.
Response: Martin Marietta provided a summary of an analysis conducted by their
hydrogeologist, Dr. David R. Buss, to address the comments above. The response satisfies
our concern.
Mr. Michael Hollibaugh
December 9,2005
Page 4
5. Comments on Blasting. Induced Vibration and Air Ove1J>ressure:
Original Comments: With regard to blasting issues, Spectra stated that the application
needed to be supplemented with additional information on blasting and blasting impacts
because blasting.is the primary focus of public concem and complaints. More specifically,
Spectra requested the following:
To adequately assess whether there will be any detrimental impacts to the residents
of Carmel as mining progresses into Mueller South, MM should provide the
following: (1) all blasting studies including any isoseismic studies as noted above
that would support this application, (2) an assessment of blasting impacts, and (3)
and basic information that we refer to as a blasting plan.
Response: To accomplish its review and comment on the submission of new materials in
advance of the BZA meeting on December 12, Spectra requested that any additional
information be sent at least one week before. Unfortunately, the materials sent by Martin
Marietta on blasting were not sent in time for a comprehensive review even though the field
work for the isoseismic study by Vibra- Tech Engineers, Inc. occurred in May 2005.
Therefore, our comments on the blasting studies and information submitted should be
considered as preliminary.
Comments on Blasting Study
Martin Marietta submitted a Vibra-Tech isoseismic study dated November 30, 2005. The
study explained that 151 digital seismographs were utilized for the study with the field work
being done in May 2005. Although four blasts were conducted, results were given for only
three of the blasts: (1) one hole signature blast - Signature Blast 1, (2) multiple~hole
production blast - Production Blast 1, and (3) an underground blast - Production Blast 2.
The study raises a number of concerns and questions:
1. In the first instance, the figures in Appendix A, Isoseismic Study Maps and Results,
are unreadable (too small).
2. There is no key to show the locations of the seismographs with the data collected.
This issue is especially important in the review of the Air Overpressure Levels
(Figure A-9).
3. The Signature Blast (Figure A-6) shows that 25% of the frequency readings are
below 10 hz and over 50% below 20 hz, yet there is no discussion of the relevance
of this fact and its impact upon residential structures. Pages 8-12 discuss natural
frequencies of structures in this range.
4. With regard to Production Blast 1, most of the readings are at 20 hz or below.
There is no discussion of the relevance of this fact (9 below 10 Hz).
Mr. Michael Hollibaugh
December 9, 2005
Page 5
5. With regard to Air Overpressure Levels from Production Blast I (Figure A-9), as
indicated above, there is no way to read and understand the locations of the
seismographs without a key. However, assuming that the .left side of the chart are
locations in and along the property line of the quarry, there are still a number of
readings above 120 dB, a level that will generate complaints. It is also a level that
Vibra-Tech has indicated in previous technical papers where efforts should be made
to reduce air overpressure to no more than 120 dB.
Assessment of Blasting Impacts
The report does conclude on page 18 that blasting at Mueller South will not exceed 0.5
in/sec. However, the report makes no assessment for improvement of blasting impacts
except to conclude that all ground vibrations and air overpressure values were within the
USBM recommended limits. Please note that blasting standards are designed to eliminate
structural damage. Spectra has contended that blasting standards alone will not mitigate
blasting complaints from Carmel residents because of the interrelationship of ground
vibration and the frequency of the blasts as well as air overpressure. Therefore, there needs
to be a discussion of the blasting impacts, the relevance of the results noted above, and the
improvements to the blasting design program. In other isoseismic studies where we have
been involved, there have been recommendations on the blasting design, particularly the
timing of delays, to increase destructive interference of frequencies and avoid the natural
resonance frequencies of most structures. There is no discussion whatsoever of projected
improvements of surface production blasting with millisecond delays although there is a
reference on page 18 that implies that a different delay was employed in the underground
Production Blast 2 (the majority of the frequency data fell above 30 hz) in comparison to the
Signature Blast.
Blasting Plan
Spectra has indicated that basic information on blasting and Martin Marietta's intentions with
regard to blasting are needed to help the public understand the issues. Some basic
information on the location of seismographs, timing and fi'equency, and size of blasts would
be helpful. We could not find this information as requested, although we consider this
information not critical to making a recommendation to the HZA.
Summary and Conclusions
While Spectra appreciates the efforts of Martin Marietta, we continue to have conceInS on
substantive issues including blasting and its impacts. Spectra cannot support the current
application without additional infoIn1ation, as noted above, to mitigate impacts upon the
residents of Carmcl. Simply assigning a maximum peak particle velocity thrcshold will not
eliminate blasting complaints. The Signature Blast in the isoseismic study indicates that the rock
responds to induced vibration in a frequency centered on 10Hz. With no infolTI1ation to the
contrary, we conclude that all efforts should be made to increase the frequency of the production
blast-induced vibrations above the natural frequency of residential structures.
Mr. Michael Hollibaugh
December 9, 2005
Page 6
If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to call me or Jason Kappel at (518) 782-
0882.
Sincerely,
SPECTRA ENVIRONMENTAL GROUP, INC.
/1~
// Gregory H. Sovas, P.E.
Vice President of Govenlluental Affairs
//~ /~ ~
,/f~olif. Kappel, P.G.
Hydrogeologist
GHS/JCK/fc
0:\2001 \0 1 233\Applications\Muellersol1thlimestoncBZA- final.doc
I
YIBRA:rECH
The Vibration Monitoring Experts
109 E. First Street, P.O. Box 577, Hazleton, PA 18201
570-455-5861 FAX 570-455-0626
February 8, 2006
Mr. Gregory H. Sovas
Spectra Environmental Group, Inc.
19 British American Blvd.
Latham, NY 12110
Re: Response to Spectra Comments on Martin Marietta application
Dear Greg:
The intent of this letter is to respond to questions and comments in Spectra's Dec. 9,2005
letter to Mike Hollibaugh.
As you know, we have been working with the Martin Marietta North Indianapolis facility
on 96th St. in Carmel, In. on blasting issues for some time now and, as a result, have
extensive knowledge of both its blasting practices and the recorded impacts from them.
We have found Martin Marietta to be in compliance with all applicable blasting standards
by a wide margin, and its current blasting practices to be better than most operations that
I have been involved with. Thus, in terms of compliance, we did not find any areas
where Martin Marietta needed to change its blasting practices either to comply with the
law or to meet industry standards.
Marietta asked us, however, to go beyond the legal requirements and industry norms and
see if we could identify any changes that could be made to its blasting practices that
would improve them and further minimize any potential impacts on surrounding
properties. Additionally, we have been asked to respond to specific questions in your
letter of Dec. 9, 2005. Our recommendations, and our responses to your letter, are as
follows:
Air Overpressure
Based on our review of blasting records at Martin Marietta's North Indianapolis
facility, air overpressure measurements were in compliance with Bureau of Mines and
other regulatory criteria and at a level that would not be damaging to any property.
Neighbors often confuse air overpressure with ground vibration, however, and it thus
affects their perception of the severity of a blast. As a result, when air overpressure is
greater they tend to think that the blast is more severe, even though its overall effect
may be less severe than another blast. Your letter suggests that it is desirable to keep
air overpressure below 120 dB, and, as a general proposition, Vibra- Tech always
counsels our clients that this is a good target. It must be recognized, however, that air
overpressure is not entirely within the operator's control and thus this target level
cannot always be achieved. We were asked by Martin Marietta to review its blasting
practices to make recommendations on how this target level could generally be met
r-
and have done so. In our experience, air overpressure levels can often be reduced by
minimizing the venting of stemming material in the shot, which can likely be
accomplished by increasing the amount of stemming material utilized. Appendix A
contains our calculations and recommendations in that regard.
From our review of Martin Marietta's blasting, we learned that the contract driller
sometimes over drills holes by 5 to 8 feet. The holes are then back filled with fines to
the correct depth. The consequence of this procedure is that when explosives are
loaded into the hole this material may compact. This excessive subdrill can lead to
uneven floors, increased vibration, and more fractured rock in the top part of the
bench to follow. This more fractured rock can lead to oversize as well as increased
potential for venting of the shot into the atmosphere, thus increasing air overpressure
readings. Better control on borehole depth and inclination will help to reduce ground
vibration and air overpressure effects for future blasts. We recommend that Martin
Marietta require the driller to maintain tighter control on the overdrill, log the actual
depth of the hole prior to backfilling and then backfill with crushed stone (not fines)
if necessary.
Air overpressure effects can also be affected by atmospheric conditions, such as
increased wind speeds in the direction of residential neighborhoods. In addition,
thermal inversions can cause air overpressure energy to be reflected back into the
community at greater distances. Although we know Martin Marietta personnel
already take account of weather conditions in connection with blasting, it may be
useful to monitor the wind speed and direction for correlation with air overpressure
effects to help identify adverse conditions for blasting. If, for example, a certain wind
direction is consistently associated with higher overpressure readings that would be
instructive. In addition, there are weather forecasting services available for predicting
unfavorable conditions such as thermal inversions. Vibra- Tech has provided
information on monitoring wind speed and direction, as well as the weather
forecasting to Martin Marietta. Results of this effort will most likely be realized over
time as data is collected and trends or tendencies are identified, reviewed, and new
procedures implemented.
Ground Vibration Frequencies
Some areas in the surrounding communities exhibit lower frequency ground
vibrations than others. These lower frequencies can contribute to elevated structural
response if the amplitude is high enough and the ground vibration frequency matches
the natural frequency of the structure. Additionally, lower frequencies may
contribute to the perception that a given blast is more severe than others. As a result,
it is generally desirable to increase the frequency of the wave generated by blasting.
As your letter correctly notes, delay times can be used to increase destructive
interference, and our recommendations in that regard are given in Appendix B. This
appendix also contains our recommendations for delay design to minimize the overall
effects of surface blasting. Martin Marietta may also want to consider the use of
electronic detonators if it has difficulty getting the blasts to detonate as designed, but
as you know from past experiences they are not absolutely necessary. We do
understand, however, that Martin Marietta is already testing electronic detonators to
see if they can be utilized to minimize impacts from blasting at the North Indianapolis
facility .
Monitorine Locations
Monitoring of the air overpressure and ground vibrations will be a necessary part of
understanding the effects of on-going blasting operations, as well as community
relations and compliance. The enclosed map in Appendix C shows our recommended
locations for remote seismic monitors. Vibra- Tech has already installed these
monitors and currently downloads and reviews the data on a shot by shot basis.
I hope that this additional information answers many of the questions Spectra had in Dec.
9,2005 letter to Mike Hollibaugh.
Respectfully submitted,
VIBRA- TECH ENGINEERS, INC.
Aj-~
Douglas Rudenko, P G
Vice President
Appendix A
Stemming Recommendations
r
YIBRA:rECH
The Vibration Monitoring Experts
109 E. First S.treet, P.O. Box 577, Hazleton, PA 18201
570-455-5861 FAX 570-455-0626
Martin Marietta Aggregates, Inc.
Indianapolis Operation
January 12,2006
SCALED DEPTH OF BURIAL CALCULATIONS
Explosive Type: Apex Gold
Explosive Density (d): 1.25 glee
Explosive Diameter (De): 5.5 in.
Typical Stemming Heights: 8 to 15 ft.
A length of 10 explosive diameters = (5.5"/12") x 10 = 4.58 ft.
Weight of explosive per foot of borehole = 0.34 x (De)2 x d = 0.34 x (5.5i x 1.25 = 12.85
lb/ft
Weight of explosive in 10 diameters (W) = 4.58 ft x 12.85 lb/ft = 58.85 lbs
Wl/3 = 58.851/3 = 3.88 Ibl/3
D = distance from surface to center of defined charge = Stemming + Y:z(4.58) = 8 + 2.29 =
10.29 ft.
Scaled Depth of Burial (SD) = D/WI/3 = 10.29/3.88 = 2.65 (Review Figure A2)
Suppose we want a Scaled Depth of Burial = 4.0 (for airblast suppression)
SD = D/W1/3 -+ D = SD X Wl/3 = (4) x (3.88) = 15.52 ft- 2.29 ft. = 13.2 ft. of stemming
A Stone
Currently hold 8.5 to 9 feet of stemming with plug, 10 to 12 feet on front row.
13 ft. of stemming would be the minimum suggested stemming height for all holes.
At the blaster's discretion more could be utilized if conditions encountered during drilling
warrant more for a particular hole
Stemming heights should be increased 25 to 30% for wet holes.
D Stone
Currently hold 16+ feet of stemming. This is amount is adequate. Will monitor and
advise.
Appendix B
Vibra-Map Recommendations
Vibra-Map Technique
Theory of Technique
Research conducted by the USBM, foreign groups, and individual scientists has shown
that low frequency vibrations have the most potential for causing structural response and
therefore typically generate the most complaints. Field blasting seismology has shown
that sites producing low frequency vibrations are commonly associated with thick soil
overburdens or thick sequences of rock having low seismic velocity. In addition, ground
vibrations may be multiply reflected by subsurface interfaces between geologic strata,
including a shallow water table or fault planes. These reflections often result in low
frequency vibrations. It is an intuitive fact that the geology of a site directly affects the
characteristic of the seismic signal.
In October of 1983 Vibra- Tech Engineers, Inc. was awarded a mining research contract
by the USBM to study the effects of geology on surface mine blasting. The research was
completed in 1985 and is detailed in a Mining Research Contract Report entitled
"Geologic Factors Affecting Vibration from Surface Mine Blasting". Research
conducted during this study shows that the seismic signal from a single-hole blast
recorded in the near field (< 100 feet) is an impulsive spike. But as the source signal
moves away from the blast site, it is transformed by the geology along the travel path. A
seismometer in the far field (> 300 feet) would measure how the geology has transformed
the impulse spike. Figure 1 below shows how the geologic transformation function
operates.
NEAR FIELD 100 FT.
FAR FIELD 1000 FT.
GEOLOGY ~
INPUT
GEOLOGIC
RESPONSE
. OUTPUT
Figure 1. Geologic Transformation of Impulse Spike
The study further showed that two identical single hole blasts would produce
reproducible time histories and frequency spectra for a specific seismometer location.
Since a single hole waveform is a reproducible event, it is reasonable that the seismic
signature from a multi-hole production blast can be predicted by summing a series of
single hole waveforms that have been time-lagged at intervals corresponding to delay
times from the production blast. Figure 2 below shows how a synthetic seismogram for
an 8-hole production blast can be created using this technique.
aIlS SHifT
,.-- ~--..' "1 .
1.....
-t----~-~~~""' ' ,1. ," "'1__. - 'r
( -I .-
'--'1' ,I'" -- J
. 1- .
-.'1
'--1
. f.." '....1" I
"'I
"" ,I.
ItUULTANT.....OU' 8YMTHEnC 8iEJSllOGItAM
1 -r I', '- ;' 'I", ,-,J
.0.1 0.1 0.2 0.3
<
0.4
TIME. Me
I',.
0.'
, r"
0.6
I
0.7
J,
0.6
I
0..
Figure 2. Creation of Synthetic Seismogram from Time Lagged Single-Hole
Waveforms
The predicted waveforms were compared to measured waveforms. The comparisons
showed that the character (frequency content & duration) ofthe waveforms was similar.
Since manipulation of blast delay times proved to be successful, it is possible to choose
optimal blast delay times that produce minimal adverse vibrations. An optimum delay
time would be one that creates destructive (out-of-phase) interference between the
seismic signals from adjacent blast holes. A signal processing technique known as
autocorrelation determines the correlation of a time lagged version of the original signal
with the signal itself. The autocorrelation function can be used to calculate a lag (delay)
time when adjacent single holes would be out-of-phase (minimum correlation) or in-
phase (maximum correlation). The Figure 3 below illustrates this concept.
AUTOCORRELATION OF SINGLE HOLE
61 PEAK CONTSTRUCTIVE INTERFERENCE
I
31 PEAK DESTRUCTIVE INTERFERENCE
o
0.1
0.2
0.3
0.4
0.5
0.6
0.7
0.8
TIME, see
Figure 3. Autocorrelation Function Used to Calculate Lag Time
It can be seen from the figure above that a 61 ms delay interval between holes in a
production blast would produce in-phase or constructive vibrations. Conversely, 31 ms
delay between holes would create out-of-phase or destructive interference.
The Vibra-Map technique is a powerful, site specific method developed by Vibra- Tech to
show the effect of various delay intervals on the predicted frequency spectra for a
production blast. The technique convolutes a single hole frequency spectrum with the
delay-time frequency spectrum. The result of this convolution is a Fourier spectrum of a
synthetic waveform created by a constant delay interval. The Fourier spectrum for the
waveform is plotted horizontally across the page. The delay interval is then incremented
by 4 ms, a new synthetic waveform is created, and the Fourier spectrum of this new
waveform is plotted horizontally across the page on the next line down. This process is
repeated for an entire range of delay intervals. The horizontal axis of these plots
represents vibration frequency, the vertical axis is delay interval, and the relative intensity
of the color is proportional to the amplitude of the spectrum with the warmer colors (red -
yellow) corresponding to maximum Fourier amplitudes, and cooler colors (blue - white)
corresponding to minimum Fourier amplitudes.
This procedure is repeated in trial and error computer simulation of the ground vibration
characteristics at each of the seismometer locations of concern for each desired blast
configuration. Blast timing patterns which enhance the ground's low natural frequency
vibration can produce geologic resonance. This resonance can increase ground peak
particle velocity, vibration duration, and predicted structural response. Proper selection
of delay intervals in the production blasting can minimize the energy at or near these
natural frequencies of the ground, reducing ground vibration duration, peak particle
velocity, and structural response. The final Vibra-Map recommendations represent the
singular result of optimizing the vibration effects for all locations simultaneously.
The ultimate goal of a vibration control program is to avoid ground vibrations that closely
match the natural frequency of nearby structures. By avoiding constructive interference
at the resonant frequency of each particular location, vibration amplitude and duration
may be reduced. In this way, the Vibra-Map addresses all three contributors to structural
response: ground vibration frequency, amplitude, and duration.
Discussion of Vibra-Map Analysis
One single hole blast was detonated on the Northeast wall of the A-Stone bench of the
North Indianapolis Quarry on May 20, 2005. Since the Vibra-Map calculations are
dependent on the source-receiver path, the placement of the single hole charge is an
important parameter. The placement of the single hole charge was determined by Martin
Marietta Aggregates personnel in consultation with Vibra-Tech, so as to optimize the
coverage for current and future quarrying operations. The exact location of the single
hole charge was determined by Vibra-Tech Engineers personnel using a Garmin GPS-12.
The blast location is shown on the most recent high altitude photograph of the region,
which has been geo-referenced to Indiana State Plane, East Zone, NAD27 and is included
as Figure A-I of Appendix A of the IsoSeismic report.
The location of the single hole signature blast of May 20, 2005 is given according to the
coordinates in Table 1. Vibra- Tech has performed the Vibra-Map calculations for the
signature blast at the request of Martin Marietta Aggregates. The data will be stored by
Vibra- Tech for use in Vibra-Map calculations of other blast designs in the future if
desired.
Recommendations
In making the Vibra-Map calculations we have assumed that blast designs will
accommodate a desire to maximize the tonnage fragmented during each production blast.
Each hole will contain two loaded decks with bench heights at 90 feet, and a hole
diameter of 5 Y2 inches. Blast hole spacing and burden for production blasting is 12 feet
by 12 feet. These designs also assume that electronic detonators will be used to detonate
the explosives as currently used by the explosive contractor. Because Vibra-Map
employs destructive interference between individual blasthole vibrations, better results
may often be achieved by increasing the number of holes in a row. The Vibra-Map
calculations are intended to reduce not only structural response but also geological
response. As such, the duration of the ground vibrations will not necessarily increase
when the duration of the blast increases.
For the Signature Blast detonation, the Vibra-Map plots indicate that a delay interval of
either 16 ms, 12 ms, or 24 ms between 2 decks per hole (please refer to Appendix B for
the recommended fIring times) would signifIcantly reduce the high Fourier amplitudes at
the low frequencies. The Vibra-Map builds upon these fIndings to determine the optimum
row delay interval to minimize the Fourier amplitudes in the frequency range that
residential structures vibrate, and at the frequencies that the site vibrates. The
corresponding best inter-hole delay times for a production blast with holes delayed as
listed are 52 ms, 52 ms, and 32 ms. It was also determined from the Vibra-Map plots that
the best inter-row delay intervals are 80 ms, 80 ms, and 84 ms. A table listing the Vibra-
Map recommended firing times for the single hole shot is given on the following page.
Also attached to the end of this appendix are shot timing diagrams for the recommended
delay times.
MARTIN MARlETT A AGGREGATES - 96TH ST. NORTH INDIANAPOLIS
QUARRY
SIGNATURE SHOT
VIBRA-MAP@ RECOMMENDATIONS*, **
ELECTRONIC DELAY TIMES
Signature Blast from May 20, 2005
Number of Explosive Decks Number of Blastholes per Row Number of Rows in Shot
per Hole Recommended Delay Interval Recommended Delay
Recommended Delay Interval Interval
2 Decks @ 16ms 12 Holes @ 52ms 2 Rows @ 80ms
2 Decks @ 12ms 12 Holes @ 52ms 2 Rows @ 80ms
2 Decks @ 24ms** 12 Holes @ 32ms** 2 Rows @ 84ms**
*When more than one set of delays is given for a signature blast, the order in which
they are presented is the order of preference.
** These delay time sets result in 2 decks per delay
As blasting progresses away from the test areas, seismograph recordings of the ground
vibration must be analyzed to verify the effectiveness of the Vibra-Map
recommendations. Should the effectiveness of the Vibra-Map delays be compromised by
moving too far from the original test locations, new signature blasts may be required.
Similarly, if new benches or faces are opened, the vibration signatures at the locations
around the quarry may change. Only by firing and recording a new signature blast in the
new material may this effect be evaluated.
The Vibra-Map recommended firing times may lose their effectiveness if the blasthole
pattern deviates from that used in the Vibra-Map calculations. Thorough planning prior
to drilling blast patterns is required to fully utilize the vibration control provided by the
Vibra-Map service.
Assumptions and Definitions
The following are the assumptions and definitions that the Vibra-map technique uses.
Weare clarifying them here so that there is no misunderstanding about the application of
the method.
. The method assumes that delays remain constant during the shot. At present we
cannot determine the optimum delays for shots with variable delay times, such as may
be achieved with some of the more recent initiation systems.
. The calculations assume the same number of columns in each hole and the same
number of holes in each row. Small changes in the basic pattern will make little
difference; however, an extremely irregular shot may generate different vibration than
that produced by the designs recommended in this report. Large blasts (many holes)
are more tolerant of small deviations in blast pattern; smaller blasts require care and
planning to adhere to the Vibra-Map recommendations and optimize results.
. Multiples of a particular delay interval are not equivalent to that delay interval. For
example, if we recommend 25 ms between holes in a row, 50 ms initiators should not
be used in their place. Multiples of a recommended delay interval are often much
worse than the suggested interval.
. The calculations assume equal charge weight per delay. Small differences (10 to 15
percent) will have little effect on the results. However, if substantial differences are
made between column charges, that information will be needed for the calculations.
. We recommend that an accurate initiation system which is consistent with other
blasting requirements should be used. Standard accuracy delay detonators can have
ranges of firing times of approximately ::1::7 percent compared with high accuracy
detonators which have a range of::l::2 percent. This means that a 500 ms standard
delay detonator could fire anywhere between 465 to 535 ms, whereas a high accuracy
delay detonator could fire anywhere between 490 to 510 ms. Electronic detonators
have even a much higher degree of accuracy. Predictable vibrations are only achieved
through more accurate firing times. Thus, an increase in the accuracy of the firing
times yields an increase in profitability of the Vibra-Map technique.
Disclaimers
. The recommendations regarding blast delays are based upon a superposition of
vibration waves generated by individual charge detonations and filtered through the
geologic medium. The recommended delays do not account for changes in burden,
spacing, depth, powder factor, etc., that may be necessary to accommodate these
delay intervals. Failure to properly adjust these other variables may totally negate the
advantage of using the recommended charge delays.
. The blast design which incorporates these recommendations remains the
responsibility of the blasting contractor. All aspects of the blast design, including
burden, spacing, geometry, and delays, as well as consideration for geological
variations, are the responsibility of the blaster-in-charge and explosives contractor. In
the event that the blasting contractor has any reservations regarding the incorporation
these delays in his blasting plan, Vibra- Tech disavows the recommendation of these
delays and advises using the blaster's professional judgment.
. Although we have recommended delays which we feel are consistent with good
production practice, we will neither take credit for improvements, nor accept blame
for decreases in productivity.
. Due to the hundreds of variables for which only the blaster has control, Vibra- Tech
cannot, and will not, assume responsibility for the results of the blasting. Vibra- Tech
has recommended charge delays for use by the blaster only if these recommendations
fit within the parameters he sees necessary for proper and safe blasting.
Signature Shot: Example layout - 16 ms between 2 decks, 52ms between 12 holes, and 80 ms
between 2 rows.
04 56
6
20
72
24
76
28
80
32
84
36
8
96
4S~ O-'h 52----
a
~...
6
Signature Shot: Example layout - 12 ms between 2 decks, 52ms between 12 holes, and 80 ms
between 2 rows.
~ . 04 56
I
2
r
16
68
20
72 24
76
"28
32 84
44 "" " 96
OB "6tj
Signature Shot: Example layout - 24 ms between 2 decks, 32ms between 12 holes, and 84 ms
between 2 rows.
60 92
Appendix C
Recommendations for Seismic Monitors