Why the Summit Chamber Supported Quikrete’s CUP Renewal

The Summit Chamber was proud to show up and speak during public comment in support of the renewal of Quikrete’s Conditional Use Permit.

Our support comes down to the important role this operation plays in Summit County’s economy and the ripple effect it has throughout our community. Quikrete provides well-paying local jobs, generates significant property and sales tax revenue, and, perhaps most importantly, supplies locally sourced gravel, asphalt, and concrete that our construction industry and infrastructure projects depend on.

Having these materials available locally matters. Without a local source, materials would need to be transported into Summit County from outside the area, adding transportation costs that ultimately increase the price of housing, commercial development, road improvements, public infrastructure, and other construction projects. In a community where the cost of building is already exceptionally high, losing a local supplier would have impacts that extend far beyond one business.

We recognize and respect that mining operations come with concerns and impacts that deserve thoughtful consideration. At the same time, part of the Chamber’s role is to advocate for a strong and sustainable local economy and to bring the business perspective to important community conversations. In this case, we believe the economic impact of Quikrete—and the cyclical effects of losing this operation—needed to be part of that conversation.

Quikrete’s impact also extends well beyond its business operations. Since purchasing the plant about a year ago, the company has quickly become an incredible community partner, providing more than $150,000 in financial support to local nonprofits and organizations. But what has impressed us most is that their commitment doesn’t stop with writing a check. Their team shows up, gets involved, builds relationships, and genuinely invests in the community they serve.

Strong communities need businesses that provide jobs, contribute to our tax base, support other local industries, and invest back into the place they call home. Quikrete is doing all of those things, and that is why the Summit Chamber was there to support the renewal of their Conditional Use Permit.