Demolition work is set to commence at the Permanente Quarry and cement plant located near Cupertino, a community situated approximately 4 miles north of Saratoga. The project, owned by Heidelberg Materials North America, will involve leveling roughly forty structures across a 123-acre site. According to a company release, the demolition phase is scheduled to conclude by early 2028.
The facility ceased operations in April 2020 and officially closed in August 2023 after sustained pressure from local authorities. Throughout its operational history, the site faced legal challenges from multiple environmental and governmental bodies. These entities alleged that the quarry discharged toxic metals and violated standards regarding air, water, and noise pollution. The Sierra Club initiated legal action in 2011, claiming illegal dumping into Permanente Creek. Subsequent lawsuits were filed in 2015 by the United States Environmental Protection Agency and the State of California. Santa Clara County also documented numerous violations, issuing more than two thousand citations between 2012 and 2021.
David Perkins, Heidelberg Materials senior vice president of sustainability and public affairs, stated that the company has focused on gathering feedback from residents and local stakeholders since announcing the permanent closure of the cement kiln in 2022. He described the start of demolition as a major step in providing long-term value to the community. The site, purchased by Henry J Kaiser in 1939, historically supplied materials for Northern California construction projects, including the Shasta Dam.
Local officials have welcomed the transition. Cupertino Mayor Kitty Moore described the development as a long-awaited opportunity to prioritize resident health and safety. Santa Clara County Supervisor Margaret Abe-Koga acknowledged the site's historical contributions but emphasized the need for change. She expressed appreciation for the collaboration with Heidelberg Materials as the company works to fulfill its public commitments and reclaim the land.