Russellville company wants to build asphalt plant at Chaffee

Paul Mlakar, with Russellville-based Blackstone Construction, told the Fort Chaffee Redevelopment Authority the company wants to invest $4.55 million in the construction of an asphalt production and materials recycling plant on Chaffee property north of Arkansas 22.

The plant would result in 5 jobs in the first three years and up to 25 jobs after seven years if the business model goes according to plan, Mlakar said.

Blackstone wants to purchase 10 acres of Chaffee property and lease 50 adjacent acres with intent to buy if the business expands.

Mlakar, a West Point graduate with more than nine years experience with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, said the Arkansas Department of Environmental Quality has approved a license for the plant pending FCRA approval. He said the plant can recycle roofing shingles, concrete, old asphalt and numerous other construction materials from demolition projects.

Also, the company would use extensive landscaping at the plant entrance and would retain natural buffers to block the view of the plant from Arkansas 59 and 22.

FCRA board member said the board should make sure the proposed location fits with the proposed revision to the Chaffee reuse plan. Owen said the board could have the Blackstone proposal reviewed by the Real Estate review committee and then report back to the board. The board approved Owen’s recommendation.