An asphalt plant proposal that's generated heavy opposition in the Glenvar community now won't be heard by the Roanoke County Board of Supervisors until late April.

Adams Construction, which is seeking a rezoning and special-use permit to redevelop Salem's old water treatment plant site for the project, this morning announced it has asked for a continuance of the hearing, which had been scheduled for March 24.

Rezoning applicants have the option to ask for such a continuance under certain conditions.

In a letter to the supervisors, the company cited the unavailability of some of its experts on the March date and said it intends to use the extra month to reconsider some other potential sites in light of the intense community opposition the project has engendered.

A newly formed non-profit opposing the plant, Citizens for Positive Growth, coincidentally held a news conference beside the proposed site at noon.

Spokeswoman Judy Conyers, while urging the group not to let up in its drive to block the rezoning of the site, said the additional time would be helpful in marshaling facts and forces to against it.

While somewhat suspicious of the announcement that other sites would be reconsidered, many of the 50 or so in attendance seemed pleased to hear that news.
Under the county's regular meeting schedule, the hearing would be moved to the night of April 28.