Study by Stratford Analytics Highlights Quarries as Important Contributors to Local Economies
A new report by Stratford Analytics LLC, a data-driven consulting firm specializing in economic impact and industrial market analytics, sheds light on the often-overlooked role of rock quarries and aggregate operations in driving regional economic growth.
Titled “Rock Quarries: The Hidden Engine of Regional Growth,” the report details how proximity to local aggregate supply lowers construction costs, supports infrastructure investment, and enhances regional competitiveness, while modern environmental and safety standards have made quarrying cleaner, quieter, and more sustainable than ever.
“Quarries can help form the foundation of local prosperity,” said Dr. William Rowe, CEO of Stratford Analytics. “Our analysis shows that communities with reliable local aggregate sources can build and maintain infrastructure more affordably, attract investment more effectively, and retain valuable local jobs that can’t be outsourced.”
Key Insights from the Report
- The U.S. aggregates sector generates over $27 billion in annual sales and supports roughly 600,000 jobs nationwide, including indirect and induced employment across supply chains and communities.
- Each mile of highway requires tens of thousands of tons of aggregate, underscoring the importance of maintaining accessible local sources to control public project costs.
- Local quarries reduce both economic and environmental costs by minimizing long-distance hauling, thereby cutting diesel emissions, road wear, and congestion.
- Modern quarrying practices use advanced dust suppression, water recycling (often 80 to 90% reuse), and noise-control technologies that keep air and groundwater quality well within regulatory limits.
- Reclaimed quarry sites often become parks, lakes, and community assets, reflecting strong environmental stewardship and long-term planning.
An Asset for Economic Development
Quarries are strategic infrastructure assets, essential not only for construction materials but also for the broader economic ecosystems they sustain. By ensuring affordable, nearby aggregate supply, regions can reduce project costs, attract industry, and expand tax revenues that support schools, roads, and public services.
“Regions that protect and plan for their aggregate resources are setting themselves up for long-term resilience,” Dr. Rowe added. “Rock quarries, far from being obstacles to progress, are actually hidden engines of regional growth.”
About Stratford Analytics LLC
Stratford Analytics is a data analytics and economic development consulting firm providing feasibility studies, economic impact reports, and custom analytics for industrial and infrastructure projects. The firm works with developers, engineering firms, economic developers, and policymakers to quantify how proposed investments generate local and regional benefits.
To download the full report, “Rock Quarries: The Hidden Engine of Regional Growth,” visit www.stratfordanalytics.com.
Media Contact:
Katherine Nelson
Media Relations, Stratford Analytics LLC
336-740-1786 | [email protected]
Source: 38 Digital Market News
Release ID: 1966590
Information contained on this page is provided by an independent third-party content provider. XPRMedia and this Site make no warranties or representations in connection therewith. If you are affiliated with this page and would like it removed please contact [email protected]
