Bedford Road residents oppose proposed waste transfer station

Greg Larry, Cumberland Times-News, Md.
·2 min read

Sep. 26—CUMBERLAND — Burgmeier Hauling's request to construct a waste transfer station at the intersection of U.S Route 220 and Bedford Road near Sunset Memorial Park is drawing fire from some who live in the area.

"The area where they want to locate this center is mainly a residential area with many homes and businesses located near and around the proposed site," wrote Richard Mihailovich in a letter to the editor sent to the Cumberland Times-News. "This intersection has poor traffic controls and has been the site of many serious accidents. Locating such a facility at this location would increase truck traffic, generate the smell of waste and have a negative environment impact. It would also destroy the natural beauty of the area."

Waste transfer stations are facilities where garbage and recyclables collected from residents and businesses are temporarily held for processing. The materials are then hauled away by larger trucks to landfills or recycling centers.

Burgmeier Real Estate has petitioned the county Board of Zoning Appeals for a special exemption to build the facility, and a public hearing has been scheduled for Oct. 4, 5 p.m., at the Allegany County Office Complex on Kelly Road.

"It's part of the permit process," said Jason Bennett, county administrator. "Zoning dictates that something like this must go before the Board of Zoning Appeals and that is what's going to happen. The residents know that a hearing is coming up so they are starting to voice their opinions, which they are entitled to."

In his letter, Mihailovich said the proposed site at the intersection of U.S. 220 and Bedford Road near the Pennsylvania/Maryland line would not have a safe access point for increased truck traffic.

"The county is trying to promote the beauty of Allegany County for visitors and tourists," he said. "A waste transfer center when first entering the county would not be very promotional. Another major concern is locating it next to Sunset Memorial Park. Do we want our loved ones interred next to a waste transfer center?"

Mihailovich said Bedford Road residents have retained the services of an attorney as they fight the proposed station.

"All interested parties are encouraged to attend this meeting as a time of testimony," he said.

Greg Larry is a reporter at the Cumberland Times-News. To reach him, call 304-639-4951, email glarry@times-news.com and follow him on Twitter @GregLarryCTN.