On the Old Hazeldell Quarry website they admit that they only plan on directly creating 10 jobs. You read that right. 10. The simple truth is the idea that Old Hazeldell quarry will boost Oakridge's economy is a myth. It also has the potential to take away from the tourism jobs being created in our community.
Besides the immense health concerns of living next to a quarry, there's an often overlooked concern. Property values. On average, property within a mile of the quarry will lose about 19% of its value as soon as a quarry begins. Over half of Oakridge's homes are within that mile. If the quarry is approved, this could mean millions in lost property value and potential financial ruin for many.
At Oakridge Strong, we’ve been fighting for nearly a decade to protect Oakridge from the Old Hazeldell Quarry. In 2021 we were successful in getting the permit denied. This took work - letters, phone calls, generating press, meeting with the county, and a lot of good old-fashioned work ethic. But Crown Properties has re-submitted its application and is throwing the full force of its millions behind it. Starting in 2024 we plan on putting an end to this once and for all, no matter what it takes.