The Lime Creek Quarry is to become a victim of further urban sprawl. The phenomenon is nothing surprising in Texas. However, the vulnerable hydrogeology of such development is a particular environmental concern. The city explicitly stated it wants “to maximize all the available land for redevelopment” solely for economic development. Environmentally concerned residents want to redefine what exactly is “available.” Because associated impervious cover will increase runoff, contaminated runoff will make its way into the pit. 

Due to years of quarrying, the protective epikarst layer, which normally filters out pollutants and crucially slows the rate of recharge, has been destroyed. Karst alone is incredibly pemereable on its own, and thus these conditions will pose a great danger. Simply put, contaminated runoff will make its way down rapidly through the Edwards Limestone and Edwards Aquifer. 2.5 million central Texans rely on the fragile karst. Cedar Park doesn’t need more dizzying subdivisions and retail spaces, especially in the quarry.

That is why we propose the quarry to be converted into a nature reserve and park. There are many places where this has been successful (i.e. Japanese Tea Gardens in San Antonio). This proposal aligns with nearly all of the strategic goals the city has set out. Residents of Cedar Park deserve more than just another dull industrial landscape that contributes nothing to a sense of community. Let's protect the Lime Creek Quarry!