The South Carolina Aggregates Association and Carolinas Ready Mixed Concrete Association recently joined forces to host a joint quarry and ready mixed concrete plant tour, welcoming members of the South Carolina General Assembly and industry partners for a firsthand look at the operations that support South Carolina’s infrastructure and economy.

The November 10 event provided an opportunity to showcase the connection between the aggregates and ready mixed concrete industries, highlighting the people, processes and facilities involved in producing two essential materials used throughout the state.

The day began at Martin Marietta’s Edgefield Quarry, where guests learned more about the extraction and production of aggregates. Participants had the opportunity to see firsthand how these operations produce the materials that serve as the foundation for roads, buildings and other critical infrastructure.

Following lunch, the group traveled to Knight’s Ready Mix in Aiken for a tour of its ready mixed concrete manufacturing plant. The visit offered another perspective on the journey of these materials, demonstrating how aggregates become an essential component of the concrete used in projects across South Carolina.

Legislative guests included Chairman Bill Hixon of the House Agriculture, Natural Resources, and Environmental Affairs Committee and Representative Tommy Paradise, along with members of Chairman Hixon’s staff. SCAA and CRMCA legislative committee members and industry representatives also participated in the tours.

The event was made possible through the support and participation of Martin Marietta and Knight’s Companies, along with the association’s legislative partners at 1101 Public Affairs.

Opportunities like these are valuable in helping policymakers better understand the operations, investments and workforce behind South Carolina’s aggregates and ready mixed concrete industries. By bringing legislative partners directly to the facilities where these materials are produced, SCAA and CRMCA can demonstrate how closely connected the two industries are and the important role they play in supporting the state’s continued growth.

SCAA and CRMCA appreciate the industry partnerships that made this joint event possible and look forward to continuing opportunities to educate and engage with South Carolina’s policymakers and industry partners.