A few days ago, I found out about a gravel pit and asphalt plant that is applying for a permit to continue operation after the Olympics. This operation (Whistler Aggregate) is right next door to my new home in Cheakamus Crossing, otherwise known as the Whistler Olympic Athlete Village. Naturally, I am concerned, as are many of the other future residents. I made a trip to the site yesterday to see if the rumours of noxious fumes and black smoke were true. I found a faint smell of asphalt near the south side of the community, but no visible smoke. The scent was pretty consistent throughout my 20-minute visit, although it didn’t seem that the plant was running, something backed up by the letter below – the plant doesn’t run from October-May. During my visit six large dump trucks passed me, most of them using loud and intrusive air brakes. I have no information as to whether or not this will continue during or after the Olympics but, needless to say, I would be disappointed if our new neighbourhood was subjected to this noise and pollution.
There will be an open house on November 26th at Myrtle Phillip Community School. The basic details are outlined below in a letter from Whistler town council representative Bill Barratt. I will update this entry as I learn more.
Please feel free to post comment with more info in order to keep this issue out in the open and to keep the activity near Cheakamus Crossing as transparent and municipally-responsible as it should be. I will continue to update and inform media via my Twitter account as well.
Mike Berard
Nov 13th, 2009
UPDATE: Whistler 2010 Blog comments on the situation HERE.
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I am in opposition to the Ashpalt Plant having its lease extended. I believe this will directly affect the health of the community living in the Cheakamus Crossing neighbourhood. Lets join forces and be heard before its too late.
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