Asphalt company to pay $15,000 to settle air quality violations

Particulate pollution is made up of particles of soot, dust and unburned fuel suspended in the air. High levels of particles can cause a variety of health problems, especially in children, the elderly, and those with existing conditions such as asthma.

The Washington Department of Ecology (Ecology) assessed a $30,000 penalty for the violations. As part of a settlement agreement, Ecology suspends $15,000 of the penalty, provided the company does not violate any air quality laws in the state of Washington for two years.

"Oregon Mainline Paving brought its operation into compliance and met all of its obligations spelled out in our order to them," said Sue Billings, an air quality manager for Ecology in Yakima. "They continue to invest in emerging technologies such as warm-mix asphalt, which reduces overall asphalt plant emissions, as well as recycling existing asphalt that would have otherwise ended up in landfills. Because of this and because we wish to preserve tight resources, avoid litigation and maintain a positive working relationship with the company, we believe this to be a satisfactory outcome."

Oregon Mainline Paving spokesman Matt Seehawer said, "Oregon Mainline Paving has, and continues to maintain, a long-standing history of environmental compliance and stewardship throughout the Northwest. We are glad to resolve this matter with Ecology and are looking forward to the 2010 construction season."

The funds will go to the state's Air Pollution Control Account to support programs designed to protect air quality in the state.