What Is Being Proposed?
A developer has applied to rezone approximately 1,600 acres in the Little River Valley of Southwest Allen County, Indiana for heavy industrial use. [WFFT Fox 55]
[Inside Indiana Business] The proposed development includes:
- A limestone quarry — open-pit mining on approximately 800 acres, estimated to operate for 80–100 years
- An asphalt plant — a major source of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and particulate matter
- A concrete batching plant — producing silica dust, cement particulate, and heavy truck traffic
- A rail yard / train spur — heavy freight infrastructure integrated into the site [WFFT Fox 55]
Together, these facilities would represent one of the most significant industrial land-use changes in the region’s history. Of the 1,600 acres, approximately 824 are proposed for active quarry and industrial operations; the remainder is designated as buffer area.
Where Is This Happening?
The proposed site lies within the Little River Valley in Southwest Allen County — an area that: [WFFT Fox 55]
- Borders at least eight completed residential neighborhoods
- Is in close proximity to three schools, including Lafayette Meadows Elementary
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Is adjacent to two major hospitals — IU Health Fort Wayne and Lutheran Hospital [IU Health (via WFFT Fox 55)]
- Sits adjacent to Eagle Marsh and Fox Island — protected wetland systems that serve as critical wildlife habitat and regional flood protection
- Is part of the Little River watershed, which connects to downstream communities
- Is near commercial corridors along U.S. 24 and the Coventry shopping area
IU Health has publicly stated:“Operations like a rock quarry introduce noise, heavy truck traffic and industrial activity that can conflict with the healing environment we work hard to maintain.” [IU Health (via WFFT Fox 55)]
Who Is Behind It?
The applicant is US Aggregates, a subsidiary of The Heritage Group based in Indianapolis. [WFFT Fox 55] Public zoning filings and county documents are the primary sources. The application can be tracked through the Allen County Planning Services portal and the Agenda Center. [Allen County Department of Pla]
What Is the Timeline?
Key dates and decision points are tracked on our Timeline page. Public hearings before the Allen County Plan Commission and Board of Zoning Appeals are the critical moments for community input.
Why Does This Matter?
Once a quarry is approved and mining begins, the land-use change is effectively permanent for multiple generations. The impacts — to air quality, groundwater, wetlands, property values, and quality of life — would be felt for 80–100 years.
This is the moment to act.
Learn More
- Science & Data — Research on environmental and health impacts
- Maps — See how the proposed site overlaps with your neighborhood
- Take Action — How to make your voice heard