Editor’s note: The following statement was provided by a Cemex representative in response to The Business Journal’s previous web poll question, “Do you approve of Cemex’s plan to mine a 600-foot pit in the San Joaquin River in Fresno?” A correction will be issued in the March 28 edition to clarify the mine is located along the river, not in it.

In December 2024, the County of Fresno Department of Public Works and Planning released the draft environmental impact report (DEIR) on Cemex’s proposed plan to modify its existing Rockfield aggregate operation on Friant Road (Modification Plan) and received public comments through March 10, 2025. Cemex submitted its application for the Modification Plan in 2019. Under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), state and local agencies are required to evaluate the environmental impacts of proposed projects with appropriate mitigation measures and allow for public comment before a final determination of approval.

For the past century, the Rockfield aggregate operations have been an integral part of the Fresno region, providing a reliable and cost-effective source of construction materials for homes, businesses, and public infrastructure like roads, hospitals, and schools. The Rockfield operations directly support more than 90 local families, providing employees with high-paying, quality jobs, many who have been working at the operation for decades.

Inaccurate information about the modification plan has been broadly communicated by a few project opponents and unfortunately perpetuated by some local digital channels. Importantly, Cemex does not propose to mine in the San Joaquin River. This has been clear throughout the application process and any suggestions otherwise are disingenuous at best and appear designed to mislead the public. The modification plan proposes to extend the length of quarry operations within the existing footprint and make significant investments to modernize the current mining and processing operations, allowing the Rockfield quarry operation to continue contributing to the economic growth and vitality of the region. Cemex is also committed to environmental restoration and wildlife protection through its reclamation plan for the site.

Continuing operations at this location is important for efficiency, economic savings, and safety. Distance matters. Shorter haul distances reduce transportation costs, fuel consumption and greenhouse gas emissions, as well as reducing construction timeframes, in turn reducing risks of safety incidents for road workers. Having a local aggregate resource helps keep project costs down, making housing and infrastructure more affordable.

Cemex looks forward to working with the County as it responds to public comments and finalizes the environmental impact assessment for the Modification Plan. To learn more, visit cemexusa.com/rockfield.

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From the Cemex website: Cemex is a global construction materials company that is building a better future through sustainable products and solutions. Cemex is committed to achieving carbon neutrality through relentless innovation and industry-leading research and development.