HAMMOND, Ind. (AP) — The city has set a list of 13 conditions BP must meet to build a $110 million asphalt plant, including limits on traffic and air emissions, and long-term monitoring of cancer and lung disease among nearby residents.

The asphalt center is part of BP’s plan to expand its Whiting oil refinery so it can process heavy Canadian crude oil, increasing its production of motor fuels by about 15 percent. A conditional use permit for the facility has been stalled since July as Hammond health and safety officials have sought assurances from the company regarding potential impacts on surrounding areas.

Hammond regulators released a 98-page report late Friday through which BP can earn a favorable recommendation for the asphalt center in advance of a hearing before the Board of Zoning Appeals scheduled for April 30.

BP spokesman Tom Keilman said Monday he could not comment.

Posted 3/3/2008