RAPID CITY, S.D. (AP) — Pennington County planners have recommended approval of a limestone quarry in a scenic area that's on the main tourist route to Mount Rushmore National Memorial, but opponents have appealed the decision.

The Pennington County Commission will have the final say on whether Iowa-based concrete supplier Croell Redi-Mix Inc. gets a construction permit to expand the Perli Quarry southwest of Rapid City.

Some area residents fear a larger open-pit rock quarry might spoil the scenic Black Hills area, endanger highway traffic and damage residential water wells.

Croell attorney Tom Brady says the company has complied with all state and local laws. County Planning Director PJ Conover says Croell has met all the criteria for a permit, and that Planning Department decisions can't be based solely on public opinion.

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