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Statement of Need Area Demographics. Economics and Population The City of San Marcos is a growing and progressive community located between Austin and San Antonio on the NAFTA Highway IH-35. The City has an estimated population of 35,925. In the heart of San Marcos is Southwest Texas State University, which has an enrollment in excess of 21 ,000 students. San Marcos is traversed from northwest to southeast by the Blanco River, San Marcos River and several smaller creeks. The western portion of the City is over the recharge zone of the Edward's Aquifer. Balconies Fault runs from north to south and there are many caves which recharge directly into the aquifer. Past History The City of San Marcos responded to hazardous materials chemical spills or chemical releases an average of 67.6 times per year between 1988 and 1996. Hazmat calls are up 218% since 1988. However, there have been no major incidences to date. Potential Hazards In addition to the 64,000 + (TXDOT 1995) vehicles which travellH-35 through San Marcos are the increasing number of trucks carrying various hazardous materials daily through the City via State Highways 123, 80, 21, RR-12, and Loop 82. These trucks pass within feet of two of the state's largest and most visited factory malls, with conceivable hazardous materials exposure to 6,000,000 visitors per year. Within one-half mile west of these facilities run the Union-Pacific railroads. There are 20 at-g~ade railroad crossings in the City limits. Daily, an estimated 40 trains carry unknown substances through the heart of San Marcos, exposing all citizenry to potential hazardous materials spills, fumes, fires and contamination. Any unconfined hazardous materials spill has the potential of polluting not only the rivers, but also the aquifer which provides drinking water to this portion of Texas. Other industrial risks within the community include Electrosource, Inc. -- a battery manufacturer; Industrial Solvents; CFAN & Rohr Industries -- aircraft component manufacturer; Butler Manufacturing -- metal building manufacturer. Southwest Texas State University is located in the Center of the City atop a hillside. While a state institute, first response will be provided by the City. A number of potential hazards exist on campus, i.e. the Science Labs and the co- generation plant.