Vulcan Materials 10-Q 4 Nov 15 2015 Q3 Quarterly report Financial data

Document and Entity Information

Document and Entity Information - shares	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2015	Oct. 30, 2015
Document and Entity Information [Abstract]
Document Type	10-Q
Amendment Flag	false
Document Period End Date	Sep. 30, 2015
Document Fiscal Year Focus	2,015
Document Fiscal Period Focus	Q3
Trading Symbol	VMC
Entity Registrant Name	Vulcan Materials CO
Entity Central Index Key	1,396,009
Current Fiscal Year End Date	--12-31
Entity Filer Category	Large Accelerated Filer
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding		133,318,991

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Sep. 30, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Sep. 30, 2014
Assets
Cash and cash equivalents	$ 168,681	$ 141,273	$ 91,868
Accounts and notes receivable
Accounts and notes receivable, gross	558,755	378,947	485,176
Less: Allowance for doubtful accounts	(5,770)	(5,105)	(5,428)
Accounts and notes receivable, net	552,985	373,842	479,748
Inventories
Finished products	275,717	275,172	254,931
Raw materials	21,680	19,741	22,987
Products in process	1,161	1,250	1,331
Operating supplies and other	28,148	25,641	27,335
Inventories	326,706	321,804	306,584
Current deferred income taxes	39,301	39,726	41,745
Prepaid expenses	56,017	28,640	34,673
Assets held for sale	0	15,184	0
Total current assets	1,143,690	920,469	954,618
Investments and long-term receivables	40,516	41,650	42,117
Property, plant & equipment
Property, plant & equipment, cost	6,803,588	6,608,842	6,608,342
Reserve for depreciation, depletion & amortization	(3,683,961)	(3,537,212)	(3,539,772)
Property, plant & equipment, net	3,119,627	3,071,630	3,068,570
Goodwill	3,094,824	3,094,824	3,095,317
Other intangible assets, net	766,695	758,243	758,863
Other noncurrent assets	151,514	154,281	150,160
Total assets	8,316,866	8,041,097	8,069,645
Liabilities
Current maturities of long-term debt	130	150,137	145
Trade payables and accruals	195,536	145,148	167,837
Other current liabilities	216,411	156,073	196,830
Liabilities of assets held for sale	0	520	0
Total current liabilities	412,077	451,878	364,812
Long-term debt	1,979,493	1,834,642	1,984,075
Noncurrent deferred income taxes	692,643	691,137	733,613
Deferred revenue	209,651	213,968	216,205
Other noncurrent liabilities	659,725	672,773	569,841
Total liabilities	$ 3,953,589	$ 3,864,398	$ 3,868,546
Other commitments and contingencies (Note 8)
Equity
Common stock, $1 par value, Authorized 480,000 shares, Issued 133,315, 131,907 and 131,703 shares, respectively	$ 133,315	$ 131,907	$ 131,703
Capital in excess of par value	2,812,593	2,734,661	2,719,169
Retained earnings	1,564,215	1,471,845	1,441,742
Accumulated other comprehensive loss	(146,846)	(161,714)	(91,515)
Total equity	4,363,277	4,176,699	4,201,099
Total liabilities and equity	$ 8,316,866	$ 8,041,097	$ 8,069,645

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE3

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS (Parenthetical) - $ / shares	Sep. 30, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Sep. 30, 2014
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS [Abstract]
Common stock, par value	$ 1	$ 1	$ 1
Common stock, shares authorized	480,000,000	480,000,000	480,000,000
Common stock, shares outstanding	133,315,000	131,907,000	131,703,000

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMEN

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME - USD ($) shares in Thousands	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2015	Sep. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2015	Sep. 30, 2014
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME [Abstract]
Total revenues	$ 1,038,460,000	$ 873,579,000	$ 2,564,896,000	$ 2,239,142,000
Cost of revenues	747,170,000	664,537,000	1,961,292,000	1,821,220,000
Gross profit	291,290,000	209,042,000	603,604,000	417,922,000
Selling, administrative and general expenses	71,390,000	66,074,000	207,350,000	199,808,000
Gain on sale of property, plant & equipment and businesses	799,000	1,002,000	7,423,000	238,527,000
Restructuring charges	(448,000)	(750,000)	(4,546,000)	(750,000)
Other operating expense, net	(8,045,000)	(2,889,000)	(22,391,000)	(17,645,000)
Operating earnings	212,206,000	140,331,000	376,740,000	438,246,000
Other nonoperating income (expense), net	(2,818,000)	(593,000)	(2,277,000)	4,030,000
Interest expense, net	37,800,000	40,891,000	183,931,000	201,531,000
Earnings from continuing operations before income taxes	171,588,000	98,847,000	190,532,000	240,745,000
Provision for income taxes	45,386,000	31,066,000	51,177,000	71,947,000
Earnings from continuing operations	126,202,000	67,781,000	139,355,000	168,798,000
Loss on discontinued operations, net of tax	(2,397,000)	(842,000)	(7,066,000)	(1,896,000)
Net earnings	123,805,000	66,939,000	132,289,000	166,902,000
Other comprehensive income, net of tax
Reclassification adjustment for cash flow hedges	282,000	598,000	5,607,000	4,167,000
Adjustment for funded status of benefit plans	0	0	0	2,943,000
Amortization of actuarial loss and prior service cost for benefit plans	3,883,000	1,114,000	9,261,000	1,006,000
Other comprehensive income	4,165,000	1,712,000	14,868,000	8,116,000
Comprehensive income	$ 127,970,000	$ 68,651,000	$ 147,157,000	$ 175,018,000
Basic earnings (loss) per share
Continuing operations	$ 0.95	$ 0.51	$ 1.05	$ 1.29
Discontinued operations	(0.02)	0	(0.06)	(0.02)
Net earnings	0.93	0.51	0.99	1.27
Diluted earnings (loss) per share
Continuing operations	0.93	0.51	1.03	1.27
Discontinued operations	(0.02)	(0.01)	(0.05)	(0.01)
Net earnings (loss)	$ 0.91	$ 0.50	$ 0.98	$ 1.26
Weighted-average common shares outstanding
Basic	133,474	131,797	133,082	131,256
Assuming dilution	135,558	133,369	134,942	132,759
Cash dividends per share of common stock	$ 0.10	$ 0.06	$ 0.30	$ 0.16
Depreciation, depletion, accretion and amortization	$ 69,662,000	$ 71,157,000	$ 204,770,000	$ 208,858,000
Effective tax rate from continuing operations	26.50%	31.40%	26.90%	29.90%

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEME5

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS - USD ($)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2015	Sep. 30, 2014
Operating Activities
Net earnings	$ 132,289,000	$ 166,902,000
Adjustments to reconcile net earnings to net cash provided by operating activities
Depreciation, depletion, accretion and amortization	204,770,000	208,858,000
Net gain on sale of property, plant & equipment and businesses	(7,423,000)	(238,527,000)
Contributions to pension plans	(11,337,000)	(4,115,000)
Share-based compensation	14,020,000	18,425,000
Excess tax benefits from share-based compensation	(16,950,000)	(3,375,000)
Deferred tax provision (benefit)	(7,640,000)	13,158,000
Cost of debt purchase	67,075,000	72,949,000
Changes in assets and liabilities before initial effects of business acquisitions and dispositions	(79,000,000)	(89,888,000)
Other, net	(14,467,000)	5,339,000
Net cash provided by operating activities	281,337,000	149,726,000
Investing Activities
Purchases of property, plant & equipment	(214,815,000)	(169,220,000)
Proceeds from sale of property, plant & equipment	4,464,000	21,320,000
Proceeds from sale of businesses, net of transaction costs	0	719,089,000
Payment for businesses acquired, net of acquired cash	(20,801,000)	(268,604,000)
Other, net	(301,000)	0
Net cash provided by (used for) investing activities	(231,453,000)	302,585,000
Financing Activities
Proceeds from line of credit	291,000,000	70,000,000
Payment of current maturities, long-term debt and line of credit	(751,056,000)	(649,711,000)
Proceeds from issuance of long-term debt	400,000,000	0
Debt and line of credit issuance costs	(7,382,000)	0
Proceeds from issuance of common stock	0	30,620,000
Dividends paid	(39,878,000)	(20,973,000)
Proceeds from exercise of stock options	67,888,000	12,513,000
Excess tax benefits from share-based compensation	16,950,000	3,375,000
Other, net	2,000	(5,000)
Net cash used for financing activities	(22,476,000)	(554,181,000)
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents	27,408,000	(101,870,000)
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year	141,273,000	193,738,000
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period	$ 168,681,000	$ 91,868,000

SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTI

SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2015
SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES [Abstract]
SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES	Note 1: summary of significant accounting policies NATURE OF OPERATIONS Vulcan Materials Company (the “Company,” “Vulcan,” “we,” “our”), a New Jersey corporation, is the nation's largest producer of construction aggregates (primarily crushed stone, sand and gravel) and a major producer of asphalt mix and ready-mixed concrete. BASIS OF PRESENTATION Our accompanying unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements were prepared in compliance with the instructions to Form 10-Q and Article 10 of Regulation S-X and thus do not include all of the information and footnotes required by accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America for complete financial statements. Our Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheet as of December 31, 2014 was derived from the audited financial statement at that date. In the opinion of our management, the statements reflect all adjustments, including those of a normal recurring nature, necessary to present fairly the results of the reported interim periods. Operating results for the three and nine month periods ended September 30, 2015 are not necessarily indicative of the results that may be expected for the year ended December 31, 2015. For further information, refer to the consolidated financial statements and footnotes included in our most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K. Due to the 2005 sale of our Chemicals business as presented in Note 2, the operating results of the Chemicals business are presented as discontinued operations in the accompanying Condensed Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income. RECLASSIFICATIONS Certain items previously reported in specific financial statement captions have been reclassified to conform with the 2015 presentati on. We early adopted Accounting Standards Update (ASU) No. 2015-03, “Simplifying the Presentation of Debt Issuance Costs,” resulting in adjustments to our prior financial statements. See Note 17 for additional information. RESTRUCTURING CHARGES In 2014, we announced changes to our executive management team, and a new divisional organization structure that was effective January 1, 2015. During the three and nine months ended September 30, 2015, we incurred $448,000 and $4,546,000 , respectively, of costs related to these initiatives. During the three and nine months ended September 30, 2014, we incurred $750,000 of costs related to these initiatives. Future related charges for these initiatives are estimated to be immaterial . EARNINGS PER SHARE (EPS) Earnings per share are computed by dividing net earnings by the weighted-average common shares outstanding (basic EPS) or weighted-average common shares outstanding assuming dilution (diluted EPS), as set forth below: Three Months Ended Nine Months Ended September 30 September 30 in thousands Weighted-average common shares outstanding Dilutive effect of Stock options/SOSARs 1 Other stock compensation plans Weighted-average common shares outstanding, assuming dilution Stock-Only Stock Appreciation Rights (SOSARs) All dilutive common stock equivalents are reflected in our earnings per share calculations. Antidilutive common stock equivalents are not included in our earnings per share calculations. In periods of loss, shares that otherwise would have been included in our diluted weighted-average common shares outstanding computation are excluded. There were no excluded shares for the periods presented. The number of antidilutive common stock equivalents for which the exercise price exceeds the weighted-average market price is as follows: Three Months Ended Nine Months Ended September 30 September 30 in thousands Antidilutive common stock equivalents

DISCONTINUED OPERATIONS

DISCONTINUED OPERATIONS	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2015
DISCONTINUED OPERATIONS [Abstract]
DISCONTINUED OPERATIONS	Note 2: Discontinued Operations In 2005, we sold substantially all the assets of our Chemicals business to Basic Chemicals, a subsidiary of Occidental Chemical Corporation. The financial results of the Chemicals business are classified as discontinued operations in the accompanying Condensed Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income for all periods presented. There were no revenues from discontinued operations for the periods presented. Results from discontinued operations are as follows: Three Months Ended Nine Months Ended September 30 September 30 in thousands Discontinued Operations Pretax loss $ (3,974) $ (1,393) $ (11,627) $ (3,132) Income tax benefit Loss on discontinued operations, net of income taxes $ (2,397) $ (842) $ (7,066) $ (1,896) Th e l osses from discontinued operations noted above include charges related to general and product liability costs, including legal defense costs, and environmental remediation costs associated with our former Chemicals business. The current year’s increased losse s r esulted primarily from charges associated with the Lower Passaic and Texas Brine matters as further discussed in Note 8.

INCOME TAXES

INCOME TAXES	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2015
INCOME TAXES [Abstract]
INCOME TAXES	Note 3: Income Taxes Our estimated annual effective tax rate (EAETR) is based on full year expectations of pretax book earnings, statutory tax rates, permanent differences between book and tax accounting such as percentage depletion, and tax planning alternatives available in the various jurisdictions in which we operate. For interim financial reporting, we calculate our quarterly income tax provision in accordance with the EAETR. Each quarter, we update our EAETR based on our revised full year expectation of pretax book earnings and calculate the income tax provision so that the year-to-date income tax provision reflects the EAETR. Significant judgment is required in determining our EAETR. In the third quarter of 2015, w e recorded an income tax expense from continuing operations of $ 45,386,000 c ompared to $31,066,000 in the third quarter of 2014. The change in our income tax expense for the quarter resulted largely from applying the statutory rate to the increase in our pretax book earning s. For the nine months ended September 30, 2015, w e recorded an income tax expense from continuing operations of $51,177,000 c ompared t o $71,947,000 for the nine months ended September 30, 2014. The change in our income tax expense for the nine month period resulted largely from applying the statutory rate to the decrease in our pretax book earning s. We recognize deferred tax assets and liabilities based on the differences between the financial statement carrying amounts of assets and liabilities and the amounts used for income tax purposes. Deferred tax assets represent items to be used as a tax deduction or credit in future tax returns. Realization of the deferred tax assets ultimately depends on the existence of sufficient taxable income of the appropriate character in either the carryback or carryforward period. Each quarter we analyze the likelihood that our deferred tax assets will be realized. A valuation allowance is recorded if, based on the weight of all available positive and negative evidence, it is more likely than not (a likelihood of more than 50%) that some portion, or all, of a deferred tax asset will not be realized. Based on our third quarter 2015 analysis, we believe it is more likely than not that we will realize the benefit of all our deferred tax assets with the exception of certain state net operating loss carryforwards. For 2015, w e p roject deferred tax assets related to state net operating loss carryforwards of $62,170,000 , of which $59,354,000 relates to Alabama. Through the second quarter of 2015, we maintained a full valuation allowance against the Alabama net operating loss carryforward. As disclosed in our Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended June 30, 2015, we restructured our legal entities during the second quarter of 2015. We communicated then that this restructuring might allow for utilization of some or all of our Alabama net operating loss carryforward prior to its expiration. At the end of the third quarter, our cumulative three-year Alabama adjusted income turned positive. This development, in conjunction with all other available positive and negative evidence, has led us to conclude that it is more likely than not that $4,655,000 of the Alabama net operating loss carryforward is realizable. As such, a deferred tax benefit of $4,655,000 was recorded in the third quarter to reflect such reduction in the valuation allowance. Each quarter, we will reassess all positive and negative evidence to determine the appropriate amount of the valuation allowance. We recognize a tax benefit associated with a tax position when, in our judgment, it is more likely than not that the position will be sustained based upon the technical merits of the position. For a tax position that meets the more likely than not recognition threshold, we measure the income tax benefit as the largest amount that we judge to have a greater than 50% likelihood of being realized. A liability is established for the unrecognized portion of any tax benefit. Our liability for unrecognized tax benefits is adjusted periodically due to changing circumstances, such as the progress of tax audits, case law developments and new or emerging legislation. A summary of our deferred tax assets is included in Note 9 “Income Taxes” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2014.

DEFERRED REVENUE

DEFERRED REVENUE	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2015
DEFERRED REVENUE [Abstract]
DEFERRED REVENUE	Note 4: deferred revenue We entered into two transactions (September 2013 and December 2012) through which we sold a percentage of the future production from aggregates reserves at eight quarries ( seven owned and one leased). These sales were structured as volumetric production payments (VPPs). We received net cash proceeds of $153,282,000 and $73,644,000 for the 2013 and 2012 transactions, respectively. These proceeds were recorded as deferred revenue on the balance sheet and are amortized on a unit-of-sales basis to revenue over the terms of the VPPs. Concurrently, we entered into marketing agreements with the purchaser through which we are designated the exclusive sales agent for the purchaser’s percentage of future production. Acting as the purchaser’s agent, our consolidated total revenues exclude these sales. The common key terms of both VPP transactions are: § the purchaser has a nonoperating interest in future production entitling them to a percentage of future production § there is no minimum annual or cumulative production or sales volume, nor any minimum sales price guarantee § the purchaser has the right to take its percentage of future production in physical product, or receive the cash proceeds from the sale of its percentage of future production under the terms of the aforementioned marketing agreement § the purchaser's percentage of future production is conveyed free and clear of all future costs § we retain full operational and marketing control of the specified quarries § we retain fee simple interest in the land as well as any residual values that may be realized upon the conclusion of mining The key terms specific to the 2013 VPP transaction are: § terminates at the earlier to occur of September 30, 2051 or the sale of 250.8 million tons of aggregates from the specified quarries; based on historical and projected volumes from the specified quarries, it is expected that 250.8 million tons will be sold prior to September 30, 2051 § the purchaser's percentage of the maximum 250.8 million tons of future production is estimated to be 11.5% (approximately 29 million tons); the actual percentage may vary The key terms specific to the 2012 VPP transaction are: § terminates at the earlier to occur of December 31, 2052 or the sale of 143.2 million tons of aggregates from the specified quarries; based on historical and projected volumes from the specified quarries, it is expected that 143.2 million tons will be sold prior to December 31, 2052 § the purchaser's percentage of the maximum 143.2 million tons of future production is estimated to be 10.5% (approximately 15 million tons); the actual percentage may vary Reconciliation of the deferred revenue balances (current and noncurrent) is as follows: Three Months Ended Nine Months Ended September 30 September 30 in thousands Deferred Revenue Balance at beginning of period $ 217,429 $ 222,589 $ 219,968 $ 224,743 Cash received and revenue deferred Amortization of deferred revenue Balance at end of period $ 215,651 $ 221,205 $ 215,651 $ 221,205 Based on expected aggregates sales from the specified quarries, we anticipate recognizing an estimated $6,000,000 of deferred revenue (reflected in other current liabilities in our 2015 Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheet) during the 12-month period ending September 30, 2016.

FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS

FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2015
FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS [Abstract]
FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS	Note 5: Fair Value Measurements Fair value is defined as the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date. The fair value hierarchy prioritizes the inputs to valuation techniques used to measure fair value into three broad levels as described below: Level 1: Quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities Level 2: Inputs that are derived principally from or corroborated by observable market data Level 3: Inputs that are unobservable and significant to the overall fair value measurement Our assets subject to fair value measurement on a recurring basis are summarized below: Level 1 September 30 December 31 September 30 in thousands Fair Value Recurring Rabbi Trust Mutual funds $ 12,081 $ 15,532 $ 14,986 Equities Total $ 20,859 $ 26,780 $ 27,824 Level 2 September 30 December 31 September 30 in thousands Fair Value Recurring Rabbi Trust Common/collective trust funds $ 1,464 $ 1,415 $ 1,367 Total $ 1,464 $ 1,415 $ 1,367 We have established two Rabbi Trusts for the purpose of providing a level of security for the employee nonqualified retirement and deferred compensation plans and for the directors' nonqualified deferred compensation plans. The fair values of these investments are estimated using a market approach. The Level 1 investments include mutual funds and equity securities for which quoted prices in active markets are available. Level 2 investments are stated at estimated fair value based on the underlying investments in those funds (short-term, highly liquid assets in commercial paper, short-term bonds and certificates of deposit). Ne t g ain s (losses) of the Rabbi Trust investments were $(1,964,000) and $2,571,000 for the nine months ended September 30, 2015 and 2014, respectively. The portions of the ne t g ain s (losses) related to investments still held by the Rabbi Trusts at September 30, 2015 and 2014 were $(2,068,000) and $369,000 , respectively. The carrying values of our cash equivalents, restricted cash, accounts and notes receivable, short-term debt, trade payables and accruals, and other current liabilities approximate their fair values because of the short-term nature of these instruments. Additional disclosures for derivative instruments and interest-bearing debt are presented in Notes 6 and 7, respectively. Assets that were subject to fair value measurement on a nonrecurring basis are summarized below: Period ending September 30, 2015 Period ending September 30, 2014 Impairment Impairment in thousands Level 2 Charges Level 2 Charges Fair Value Nonrecurring Property, plant & equipment, net $ 0 $ 2,176 $ 2,280 $ 2,987 Other intangible assets, net Other assets Total $ 0 $ 5,190 $ 2,280 $ 2,987 We recorded $5,190,000 and $2,987,000 of losses on impairment of long-lived assets (reported within other operating expense, net in our accompanying Condensed Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income) for the nine months ended September 30, 2015 and 2014, respectively , reducing the carrying value of these assets to their estimated fair values of $0 and $2,280,000 . Fair value was estimated using a market approach (observed transactions involving comparable assets in similar locations).

DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS

DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2015
DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS [Abstract]
DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS	Note 6: Derivative Instruments During the normal course of operations, we are exposed to market risks includin g i nterest rates, foreign currency exchange rates and commodity prices . From time to time, and consistent with our risk management policies, we use derivative instruments to balance the cost and risk of such expenses . We do not utilize derivative instruments for trading or other speculative purposes. The accounting for gains and losses that result from changes in the fair value of derivative instruments depends on whether the derivatives have been designated and qualify as hedging instruments and the type of hedging relationship. The interest rate swap agreements described below were designated as either cash flow hedges or fair value hedges. The changes in fair value of our interest rate swap cash flow hedges are recorded in accumulated other comprehensive income (AOCI) and are reclassified into interest expense in the same period the hedged items affect earnings. The changes in fair value of our interest rate swap fair value hedges are recorded as interest expense consistent with the change in the fair value of the hedged items attributable to the risk being hedged. CASH FLOW HEDGES Du ring 2007, we entered into fifteen forward starting interest rate locks on $1,500,000,000 of future debt issuances in order to hedge the risk of higher interest rates. Upon the 2007 and 2008 issuances of the related fixed-rate debt, underlying interest rates were lower than the rate locks and we terminated and settled these forward starting locks for cash payments of $89,777,000 . This a moun t was booked to AOCI and is being amortized to interest expense ove r the term of the related debt. This amortization was reflected in the accompanying Condensed Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income as follows: Three Months Ended Nine Months Ended Location on September 30 September 30 in thousands Statement Cash Flow Hedges Loss reclassified from AOCI Interest (effective portion) expense $ (467) $ (989) $ (9,282) $ (6,892) The loss reclassified from AOCI for the nine months ended September 30, 2015 and 2014 includes the acceleration of a proportional amount of the deferred loss in the amount of $7,208,000 and $3,762,000 , respectively, referable to the debt purchases as described in Note 7. For the 12-month period ending September 30, 2016, we estimate that $1,967,000 of the pretax loss in AOCI will be reclassified to earnings. FAIR VALUE HEDGES In June 2011, we issued $500,000,000 of 6.50% fixed-rate notes due in 2016 to refinance near term floating-rate debt . Concurrently, we entered into interest rate swap agreements in the stated amount of $500,000,000 to reestablish the pre-refinancing mix of fixed- and floating-rate debt. Under these agreements, we paid 6-month London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR) plus a spread of 4.05% and received a fixed interest rate of 6.50% . Additionally, in June 2011, we entered into interest rate swap agreements on our $150,000,000 of 10.125% fixed-rate notes due in 2015. Under these agreements, we paid 6-month LIBOR plus a spread of 8.03% and received a fixed interest rate of 10.125% . In August 2011, we terminated and settled these interest rate swap agreements for $25,382,000 of cash proceeds. The $23,387,000 gain component of the settlement (cash proceeds less $1,995,000 of accrued interest) was added to the carrying value of the related debt and is being amortized as a reduction to interest expense over the terms of the related debt using the effective interest method. This deferred gain amortization was reflected in the accompanying Condensed Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income as follows: Three Months Ended Nine Months Ended September 30 September 30 in thousands Deferred Gain on Settlement Amortized to earnings as a reduction to interest expense $ 282 $ 493 $ 2,795 $ 10,171 The amortized deferred gain for the nine months ended September 30, 2015 and 2014 includes the acceleration of a proportional amount of the deferred gain in the amount of $1,642,000 and $8,032,000 , respectively, referable to the debt purchases as described in Note 7. The deferred gain will be fully amortized in December 2015, concurrent with the retirement of the 10.125% notes due 2015.

DEBT

DEBT	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2015
DEBT [Abstract]
DEBT	Note 7: Debt Debt is detailed as follows: Effective September 30 December 31 September 30 in thousands Interest Rates Short-term Debt Bank line of credit expires 2020 1, 2 n/a $ 0 $ 0 $ 0 Total short-term debt $ 0 $ 0 $ 0 Long-term Debt Bank line of credit expires 2020 1, 2, 3 $ 85,000 $ 0 $ 0 10.125% notes due 2015 4 6.50% notes due 2016 n/a 6.40% notes due 2017 n/a 7.00% notes due 2018 10.375% notes due 2018 7.50% notes due 2021 8.85% notes due 2021 Industrial revenue bond due 2022 n/a 4.50% notes due 2025 7.15% notes due 2037 Other notes 2 Unamortized discounts and debt issuance costs n/a Unamortized deferred interest rate swap gain 5 n/a Total long-term debt including current maturities 6 $ 1,979,623 $ 1,984,779 $ 1,984,220 Less current maturities Total long-term debt $ 1,979,493 $ 1,834,642 $ 1,984,075 Total debt 7 $ 1,979,623 $ 1,984,779 $ 1,984,220 Estimated fair value of long-term debt $ 2,191,361 $ 2,092,673 $ 2,237,325 Borrowings on the bank line of credit are classified as short-term debt if we intend to repay within twelve months and as long-term debt otherwise. Non-publicly traded debt. The effective interest rate is the current credit spread over LIBOR. The 10.125% notes due 2015 are classified as long-term debt (not current maturities) as of September 30, 2015 due to our intent and ability to refinance these notes at maturity (December 15, 2015) using our line of credit. The unamortized deferred gain was realized upon the August 2011 settlement of interest rate swaps as discussed in Note 6. The debt balances as of December 31, 2014 and September 30, 2014 have been adjusted to reflect our early adoption of ASU 2015-03 and related election as discussed in Note 17. Face value of our debt is equal to t otal debt less u namortized discounts and debt issuance costs, and u namortized deferred interest rate swap gain, as follows : September 30, 2015 — $2,004,203 thousand, December 31, 2014 — $2,004,459 thousand and September 30, 2014 — $2,004,575 thousand. Our total debt is presented in the table above net of unamortized discounts from par, unamortized deferred debt issuance costs and unamortized deferred interest rate swap settlement gain . D iscounts, deferred debt issuance costs and deferred swap settlement gains are amortized using the effective interest method over the terms of the respective notes . The estimated fair value of our debt presented in the table above was determined by: ( 1) averaging several asking price quotes for the publicly traded notes and ( 2) assuming par value for the remainder of the debt. The fair value estimates for the publicly traded notes were based on Level 2 information (as defined in Note 5) as of their respective balance sheet dates. LINE OF CREDIT In June 2015, we cancelled our secured $500,000,000 line of credit and entered into a n unsecured $750,000,000 line of credit (incurring $2,589,000 of transaction fees) that expires in June 2020 . Th e l ine of credit contains affirmative, negative and financial covenants customary for an unsecured facility. The primary negative covenant limits our ability to incur secured deb t. T he financial covenants are: (1) a maximum ratio of debt to EBITDA of 3.5 :1 through September 2016 and 3.25 :1 thereafter , and (2) a minimum ratio of EBITDA to net cash interest expense of 3.0 :1. As of September 30, 2015, we were in compliance with the line of credit covenants. Borrowings on our line of credit are classified as short-term debt if we intend to repay with in twelve months and as long-term debt if we have the intent and ability to extend payment beyond twelve months . Borrowings bear interest , at our option, at either LIBOR plus a credit margin ranging from 1.00% to 2.00% , or SunTrust Bank’s base rate (generally, its prime rate) plus a credit margin ranging from 0.00% to 1.00% . The credit margin for both LIBOR and base rate borrowings is determined by either our ratio of debt to EBITDA or our credit ratings, based on the metric that produces the lower credit spread. Standby letters of credit, which are issued under the line of credit and reduce availability, are charged a fee equal to the credit margin for LIBOR borrowings plus 0.175% . We also pay a commitment fee on the daily average unused amount of the line of credit that ranges from 0.10% to 0.35% based on either our ratio of debt to EBITDA or our credit ratings , based on the metric that produces the lower fee . As of September 30, 2015, the credit margin for LIBOR borrowings was 1.75% , the credit margin for base rate borrowings was 0.75%, and the commitment fee for the unused amount was 0.25% . As of September 30, 2015, our available borrowing capacity was $626,136,000 . Utilization of the borrowing capacity was as follows: § $ 85,000,000 was borrowed § $ 38,864,000 was used to provide support for outstanding standby letters of credit TERM DEBT All of our term debt is unsecured. All such debt, other than th e $ 503,000 of other notes, is governed by tw o e ssentially identica l i ndentures that contain customary investment-grade type covenants. The primary covenant in both indentures limits the amount of secured debt we may incur without ratably securing such debt. A s of September 30, 2015, we were in compliance with all of the term debt covenants. In August 2015, we repaid our $14,000,000 industrial revenue bond due 2022 ( such repayment did not i ncur any prepayment penalties) via borrowing on our line of credit. In March 2015, we issued $400,000,000 of 4.50% senior notes due 2025 . Proceeds (net of underwriter fees and other transaction costs) of $395,207,000 were partially used to fund the March 30, 2015 purchase, via tender offer, of $127,303,000 principal amount ( 32% ) of the 7.00% notes due 2018 . The March 2015 debt purchase cost $145,899,000 , including an $18,140,000 premium above the principal amount of the notes and transaction costs of $456,000 . The premium primarily reflects the trading price of the notes relative to par prior to the tender offer commencement. Additionally, we recognized $3,138,000 of net no nc ash expense associated with the acceleration of a proportional amount of unamortized discounts, deferred debt issuance costs, and deferred interest rate derivative settlement gains and losses. The combined first quarter charge of $21,734,000 is presented in the accompanying Condensed Consolidated Statement of Comprehensive Income as a component of interest expense for the nine month period ended September 30, 2015. The remaining net proceeds from the March 2015 debt issuance, together with cash on hand and borrowings under our line of credit, funded: (1) the April 2015 redemption of $218,633,000 principal amount ( 100% ) of the 6.40% notes due 2017 , (2) the April 2015 redemption of $125,001,000 principal amount ( 100% ) of the 6.50% notes due 2016 and (3) the April 2015 purchase, via the tender offer commenced in Marc h 2015 o f $185,000 principal amount (less than 1% ) of the 7.00% notes due 2018 . The April 2015 debt purchases cost $385,024,000 , including a $41,153,000 premium above the principal amount of the notes and transaction costs of $52,000 . The premium primarily reflects the make-whole value of the 2016 notes and the 2017 notes. Additionally, we recognized $4,136,000 of net n onca sh expense associated with the acceleration of unamortized discounts, deferred debt issuance costs, and deferred interest rate derivative settlement gains and losses. The combined second quarter charge of $45,341,000 is presented in the accompanying Condensed Consolidated Statement of Comprehensive Income as a component of interest expense for the nine month period ended September 30, 2015. Consistent with our intent and ability to refinance the 10.125% notes due 2015 via borrowing on our line of credit, such notes are classified as long-term debt in the accompanying Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheet as of September 30, 2015. In March 2014, we purchased $506,366,000 principal amount of debt through a tender offer as follows: $374,999,000 of 6.50% notes due in 2016 and $131,367,000 of 6.40% notes due in 2017 . This debt purchase was funded by the sale of our cement and concrete businesses in the Florida area as described in Note 16. The March 2014 debt purchases cost $579,659,000 , including a $71,829,000 premium above the principal amount of the notes and transaction costs of $1,464,000 . The premium primarily reflects the trading price of the notes relative to par prior to the tender offer commencement. Additionally, we recognized a net noncash benefit of $344,000 associated with the acceleration of a proportional amount of unamortized discounts, deferred debt issuance costs, and deferred interest rate derivative settlement gains and losses. The combined charge of $72,949,000 is presented in the accompanying Condensed Consolidated Statement of Comprehensive Income as a component of interest expense for the nine month period ended September 30, 2014. S T ANDBY LETTERS OF CREDIT We provide, in the normal co urse of business, certain thi rd-pa rty beneficiaries standby letters of credit to support our obligations to pay or perform according to the requirements of an underlying agreement. Such letters of credit typically have an initial term of one year, typically renew automatically, and can only be modified or cancelled with the approval of the beneficiary. All of our standby letters of credit are issued by banks that participate in our $750,000,000 line of credit, and reduce the borrowing capacity thereunder. Our standby letters of credit as of September 30, 2015 are summarized by purpose in the table below: in thousands Standby Letters of Credit Risk management insurance $ 33,111 Reclamation/restoration requirements Total $ 38,864

COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES

COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2015
COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES [Abstract]
COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES	Note 8: Commitments and Contingencies As summarized by purpose in Note 7, our standby letters of credit totaled $38,864,000 as of September 30, 2015. LITIGATION AND ENVIRONMENTAL MATTERS We are a defendant in various lawsuits in the ordinary course of business. It is not possible to determine with precision the outcome, or the amount of liability, if any, under these lawsuits, especially where the cases involve possible jury trials with as yet undetermined jury panels. In addition to these lawsuits in which we are involved in the ordinary course of business, certain other material legal proceedings are more specifically described below. § Lower Passaic River Study Area (Superfund Site) — The Lower Passaic River Study Area is part of the Diamond Shamrock Superfund Site in New Jersey. Vulcan and approximately 70 other companies are parties (collectively the “Cooperating Parties Group”) to a May 2007 Administrative Order on Consent (AOC) with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to perform a Remedial Investigation/Feasibility Study (draft RI/FS) of the lower 17 miles of the Passaic River (River). On April 11, 2014, the EPA issued a proposed Focused Feasibility Study (FFS) that calls for a bank-to-bank dredging remedy for the lower 8 miles of the River. The EPA estimates that the cost of implementing this proposal is approximately $950 million to $1.73 billion. The period for public comment on the proposed FFS is closed and it is anticipated that the EPA will issue its final record of decision sometime in 2015. The Cooperating Parties Group draft RI/FS estimates the preferred remedial action presented therein to cost in the range of approximately $475 million to $725 million (including $93 million in operations and maintenance costs for a 30 -y ear period). T he AOC does not obligate us to fund or perform the remedial action contemplated by either the draft RI/FS or the FFS. Vulcan formerly owned a chemicals operation near River Mile 0.1, which was sold in 1974. The Company has found no evidence that its former chemicals operation contributed any of the primary contaminants of concern to the River. Neither the ultimate remedial approach, nor the parties who will participate in funding the remediation and their respective allocations, have been determined. However, we recorded an immaterial loss for this matter in the first quarter of 2015 based on the cost estimate of the preferred remedial action supported by the Cooperating Parties Group’s draft RI/FS. § TEXAS BRINE MATTER — During the operation of its former Chemicals Division, Vulcan was the lessee to a salt lease from 1976 – 2005 in an underground salt dome formation in Assumption Parish, Louisiana. The Texas Brine Company (Texas Brine) operated this salt mine for the account of Vulcan. Vulcan sold its Chemicals Division in 2005 and assigned the lease to the purchaser, and Vulcan has had no association with the leased premises or Texas Brine since that time. In August 2012, a sinkhole developed near the salt dome and numerous lawsuits were filed in state court in Assumption Parish, Louisiana. Other lawsuits, including class action litigation, were also filed in August 2012 in federal court in the Eastern District of Louisiana in New Orleans. There are numerous defendants to the litigation in state and federal court. Vulcan was first brought into the litigation as a third-party defendant in August 2013 b y T exas Bri ne . Vulcan has since been added as a direct and third-party defendant by other parties, including a direct claim by the s tate of Louisian a. The d amages alleged in the litigation range from individual plaintiffs’ claims for property damage, to the s tate of Louisiana’s claim for response costs, to claims for physical damages to oil pipelines, to business interruption claims . In addition to the plaintiffs’ claims, Vulcan has also been sued for contractual indemnity and comparative fault by both Texas Brine and Occidental Chemical Co. (Occidental) . The total amount of damages claimed is in excess of $500 million. It is alleged that the sinkhole was caused, in whole or in part, by Vulcan’s negligent actions or failure to act. It is also alleged that Vulcan breached the salt lease, as well as an operating agreement and a drilling agreement with Texas Brine ; and that Vulcan is strictly liable for certain property damages in its capacity as a former assignee of the salt lease; and that Vulcan violated certain covenants and conditions in the agreement under which it sold its Chemicals Division in 2005. Vulcan has made claims for contractual indemnity, comparative fault, and breach of contract against Texas Brine, as well as claims for contractual indemnity and comparative fault against Occidental. Discovery is ongoing and the first trial date in any of these cases has been set for April 2016 . At this time, w e cannot reasonably estimate a range of liability pertaining to this matter. § HEWITT LANDFILL MATTER — On September 8, 2015, the Los Angeles Regional Water Quality Control Board (RWQCB) issued a Cleanup and Abatement Order (CAO) directing Vulcan to assess, monitor, cleanup and abate wastes that have been discharged to soil, soil vapor, and/or groundwater at Vulcan’s former Hewitt Landfill in Los Angeles. The CAO follows a 2014 Investigative Order from RWQCB that sought data and a technical evaluation regarding the Hewitt Landfill, and a subsequent amendment to the Investigative Order requiring Vulcan to provide groundwater monitoring results to RWQCB and to create and implement a work plan for further investigation of the Hewitt Landfill . Vulcan is engaged in performing site investigation work required by the CAO. Vulcan is also engaged in an ongoing dialogue with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power, and other stakeholders regarding the potential contribution of the Hewitt Landfill to groundwater contamination in the San Fernando Valle y. W e are gathering and analyzing data and deve loping techni cal information to determine the extent of possible contribution by the Hewitt Landfill to the groundwater contamination in the area. This work is also intended to assist in identification of other sources of contamination. At this time, we cannot reasonably estimate a range of liability pertaining to this matter. It is not possible to predict with certainty the ultimate outcome of these and other legal proceedings in which we are involved, and a number of factors, including developments in ongoing discovery or adverse rulings, or the verdict of a particular jury, could cause actual losses to differ materially from accrued costs. No liability was recorded for claims and litigation for which a loss was determined to be only reasonably possible or for which a loss could not be reasonably estimated. Legal costs incurred in defense of lawsuits are expensed as incurred. In addition, losses on certain claims and litigation described above may be subject to limitations on a per occurrence basis by excess insurance, as described in our most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K.

ASSET RETIREMENT OBLIGATIONS

ASSET RETIREMENT OBLIGATIONS	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2015
ASSET RETIREMENT OBLIGATIONS [Abstract]
ASSET RETIREMENT OBLIGATIONS	Note 9: Asset Retirement Obligations Asset retirement obligations (AROs) are legal obligations associated with the retirement of long-lived assets resulting from the acquisition, construction, development and/or normal use of the underlying assets. Recognition of a liability for an ARO is required in the period in which it is incurred at its estimated fair value. The associated asset retirement costs are capitalized as part of the carrying amount of the underlying asset and depreciated over the estimated useful life of the asset. The liability is accreted through charges to operating expenses. If the ARO is settled for other than the carrying amount of the liability, we recognize a gain or loss on settlement. We record all AROs for which we have legal obligations for land reclamation at estimated fair value. Essentially all these AROs relate to our underlying land parcels, including both owned properties and mineral leases. For the three and nine month periods ended September 30, we recognized ARO operating costs related to accretion of the liabilities and depreciation of the assets as follows: Three Months Ended Nine Months Ended September 30 September 30 in thousands ARO Operating Costs Accretion $ 2,766 $ 2,892 $ 8,553 $ 8,745 Depreciation Total $ 4,447 $ 3,972 $ 13,236 $ 11,805 ARO operating costs are reported in cost of revenues. AROs are reported within other noncurrent liabilities in our accompanying Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets. Reconciliations of the carrying amounts of our AROs are as follows: Three Months Ended Nine Months Ended September 30 September 30 in thousands Asset Retirement Obligations Balance at beginning of period $ 234,919 $ 225,117 $ 226,565 $ 228,234 Liabilities incurred Liabilities settled Accretion expense Revisions up, net Balance at end of period $ 234,680 $ 228,468 $ 234,680 $ 228,468 The net revisions relate to revised cost estimates and spending patterns for several quarries located primarily in California.

BENEFIT PLANS

BENEFIT PLANS	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2015
BENEFIT PLANS [Abstract]
BENEFIT PLANS	Note 10: Benefit Plans We sponsor three funded, noncontributory defined benefit pension plans. These plans cover substantially all employees hired prior to July 2007, other than those covered by union-administered plans. Normal retirement age is 65, but the plans contain provisions for earlier retirement. Benefits for the Salaried Plan and the Chemicals Hourly Plan are generally based on salaries or wages and years of service; the Construction Materials Hourly Plan provides benefits equal to a flat dollar amount for each year of service. In addition to these qualified plans, we sponsor three unfunded, nonqualified pension plans. Effective July 2007, we amended our defined benefit pension plans to no longer accept new participants. In December 2013, we amended our defined benefit pension plans so that future service accruals for salaried pension participants ceased effective December 31, 2013. This change included a special transition provision which will allow covered compensation through December 31, 2015 to be considered in the participants’ benefit calculations. The following table sets forth the components of net periodic pension benefit cost: PENSION BENEFITS Three Months Ended Nine Months Ended September 30 September 30 in thousands Components of Net Periodic Benefit Cost Service cost $ 1,213 $ 1,039 $ 3,638 $ 3,118 Interest cost Expected return on plan assets Settlement charge Amortization of prior service cost Amortization of actuarial loss Net periodic pension benefit cost $ 5,960 $ 2,289 $ 14,023 $ 6,867 Pretax reclassifications from AOCI included in net periodic pension benefit cost $ 7,426 $ 2,853 $ 18,359 $ 8,557 The reclassifications from AOCI noted in the table above are related to a settlement charge, amortization of prior service cost s a nd actuarial losses as shown in Note 11. The settlement charge noted above relates to a lump sum payment to a former employee from the nonqualified plan. This $2,031,000 charge is reflected within both cost of revenues, and selling, administrative and general expenses in our accompanying Condensed Consolidated Statement of Comprehensive Income for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2015. Prior contributions, along with the existing funding credits, are expected to be sufficient to cover required contributions to the qualified plans through 2015. In addition to pension benefits, we provide certain healthcare and life insurance benefits for some retired employees. In 2012, we amended our postretirement healthcare plan to cap our portion of the medical coverage cost at the 2015 level. Substantially all of our salaried employees and, where applicable , certain of our hourly employees may become eligible for these benefits if they reach a qualifying age and meet certain service requirements. Generally, Company-provided healthcare benefits terminate when covered individuals become eligible for Medicare benefits, become eligible for other group insurance coverage or reach age 65 , whichever occurs first. The following table sets forth the components of net periodic postretirement benefit cost: OTHER POSTRETIREMENT BENEFITS Three Months Ended Nine Months Ended September 30 September 30 in thousands Components of Net Periodic Benefit Cost Service cost $ 473 $ 536 $ 1,420 $ 1,609 Interest cost Curtailment gain Amortization of prior service credit Amortization of actuarial loss Net periodic postretirement benefit cost (credit) $ 45 $ 336 $ 138 $ (2,825) Pretax reclassifications from AOCI included in net periodic postretirement benefit credit $ (1,049) $ (1,024) $ (3,146) $ (6,907) The reclassifications from AOCI noted in the table above are related to a curtailment gain, amortization of prior service credits and actuarial losses as shown in Note 11. The March 2014 sale of our cement and concrete businesses in the Florida area (see Note 16) significantly reduced total expected future service of our postretirement plans resulting in a one-time curtailment gain of $3,832,000. This gain is reflected within gain on sale of property, plant & equipment and businesses in our accompanying Condensed Consolidated Statement of Comprehensive Income for the nine months ended September 30, 2014.

OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME

OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2015
EQUITY [Abstract]
OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME	Note 11: other Comprehensive Income Comprehensive income comprises two subsets: net earnings and other comprehensive income (OCI). The components of other comprehensive income are presented in the accompanying Condensed Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income, net of applicable taxes. Amounts in accumulated other comprehensive income (AOCI), net of tax, are as follows: September 30 December 31 September 30 in thousands AOCI Cash flow hedges $ (14,715) $ (20,322) $ (21,011) Pension and postretirement benefit plans Total $ (146,846) $ (161,714) $ (91,515) Changes in AOCI, net of tax, for the nine months ended September 30, 2015 are as follows: Pension and Cash Flow Postretirement in thousands Hedges Benefit Plans Total AOCI Balance as of December 31, 2014 $ (20,322) $ (141,392) $ (161,714) Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications Amounts reclassified from AOCI Net current period OCI changes Balance as of September 30, 2015 $ (14,715) $ (132,131) $ (146,846) Amounts reclassified from AOCI to earnings, are as follows: Three Months Ended Nine Months Ended September 30 September 30 in thousands Reclassification Adjustment for Cash Flow Hedge Losses Interest expense $ 467 $ 989 $ 9,282 $ 6,892 (Benefit from) provision for income taxes Total 1 $ 282 $ 598 $ 5,607 $ 4,167 Amortization of Pension and Postretirement Plan Actuarial Loss and Prior Service Cost Cost of revenues $ 5,242 $ 1,465 $ 12,417 $ 1,324 Selling, administrative and general expenses (Benefit from) provision for income taxes Total 2 $ 3,883 $ 1,114 $ 9,261 $ 1,006 Total reclassifications from AOCI to earnings $ 4,165 $ 1,712 $ 14,868 $ 5,173 Nine months ended September 30, 2015 and 2014 include the acceleration of a proportional amount of deferred interest rate derivatives (see Note 6) referable to debt purchases (see Note 7). Nine months ended September 30, 2015 includes a one-time settlement loss resulting from a lump sum payment to a former employee (see Note 10). Nine months ended September 30, 2014 includes a one-time curtailment gain (see Note 10) resulting from the sale of our cement and concrete businesses in the Florida area (see Note 16).

EQUITY

EQUITY	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2015
EQUITY [Abstract]
EQUITY	Note 12: Equity Our capital stock consists solely of common stock, par value $1.00 per share. Holders of our common stock are entitled to one vote per share. Our Certificate of Incorporation also authorizes preferred stock of which no shares have been issued. The terms and provisions of such shares will be determined by our Board of Directors upon any issuance of preferred shares in accordance with our Certificate of Incorporation. In 2014, we issued 715,004 shares of common stock in connection with a business acquisition as described in Note 16. Under a program that was discontinued in the fourth quarter of 2014, we occasionally sold shares of common stock to the trustee of our 401(k) retirement plans to satisfy the plan participants’ elections to invest in our common stock. Under this arrangement, the stock issuances and resulting cash proceeds were as follows: § twelve months ended December 31, 2014 — issued 485,306 shares for cash proceeds of $30,620,000 § nine months ended September 30, 2014 — issued 485,306 shares for cash proceeds of $30,620,000 Changes in total equity for the nine months ended September 30, 2015 are summarized below: Total in thousands Equity Balance at December 31, 2014 $ 4,176,699 Net earnings Common stock issued Share-based compensation plans Share-based compensation expense Excess tax benefits from share-based compensation Cash dividends on common stock ($0.30 per share) Other comprehensive income Other Balance at September 30, 2015 $ 4,363,277 There were no shares held in treasury as of September 30, 2015, December 31, 2014 and September 30, 2014. As of September 30, 2015, 3,411,416 shares may be repurchased under the current purchase authorization of our Board of Directors.

SEGMENT REPORTING

SEGMENT REPORTING	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2015
SEGMENT REPORTING [Abstract]
SEGMENT REPORTING	Note 13: Segment Reporting We have four operating (and report able ) segments organized around our principal product lines: Aggregates, Asphalt Mix, Concrete and Calcium. The vast majority of our activities are domestic. We sell a relatively small amount of construction aggregates outside the United States. Intersegment sales are made at local market prices for the particular grade and quality of product utilized in the production of asphalt mix and ready-mixed concrete. Management reviews earnings from the product line reporting segments principally at the gross profit level. segment financial disclosure Three Months Ended Nine Months Ended September 30 September 30 in millions Total Revenues Aggregates 1 $ 830.8 $ 688.9 $ 2,067.7 $ 1,752.6 Asphalt Mix 2 Concrete 2, 3 Calcium 4 Segment sales Aggregates intersegment sales Calcium intersegment sales Total revenues $ 1,038.5 $ 873.6 $ 2,564.9 $ 2,239.1 Gross Profit Aggregates $ 250.9 $ 188.0 $ 525.8 $ 388.1 Asphalt Mix 2 Concrete 2, 3 Calcium 4 Total $ 291.3 $ 209.0 $ 603.6 $ 417.9 Depreciation, Depletion, Accretion and Amortization (DDA&A) Aggregates $ 57.7 $ 58.5 $ 170.3 $ 169.2 Asphalt Mix 2 Concrete 2, 3 Calcium 4 Other Total $ 69.7 $ 71.2 $ 204.8 $ 208.9 Identifiable Assets 5 Aggregates $ 7,533.2 $ 7,409.1 Asphalt Mix 2 Concrete 2, 3 Calcium 4 Total identifiable assets $ 8,042.1 $ 7,888.8 General corporate assets Cash items Total $ 8,316.9 $ 8,069.6 Includes crushed stone, sand and gravel, sand, other aggregates, as well as freight, delivery and transportation revenues, and other revenues related to services. In January 2015, we exchanged our California ready-mixed concrete operations for 13 asphalt mix plants, primarily in Arizona (see Note 16). Includes ready-mixed concrete. In March 2014, we sold our concrete business in the Florida area (see Note 16) which in addition to ready-mixed concrete, included concrete block, precast concrete, as well as building materials purchased for resale. Includes cement and calcium products. In March 2014, we sold our cement business (see Note 16). Certain temporarily idled assets are included within a segment's Identifiable Assets but the associated DDA&A is shown within Other in the DDA&A section above as the related DDA&A is excluded from segment gross profit.

SUPPLEMENTAL CASH FLOW INFORMAT

SUPPLEMENTAL CASH FLOW INFORMATION	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2015
SUPPLEMENTAL CASH FLOW INFORMATION [Abstract]
SUPPLEMENTAL CASH FLOW INFORMATION	Note 14: Supplemental Cash Flow Information Supplemental information referable to our Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows is summarized below: Nine Months Ended September 30 in thousands Cash Payments Interest (exclusive of amount capitalized) $ 136,123 $ 163,593 Income taxes Noncash Investing and Financing Activities Accrued liabilities for purchases of property, plant & equipment $ 11,941 $ 5,777 Amounts referable to business acquisitions Liabilities assumed Fair value of noncash assets and liabilities exchanged Fair value of equity consideration

GOODWILL

GOODWILL	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2015
GOODWILL [Abstract]
GOODWILL	Note 15: Goodwill Goodwill is recognized when the consideration paid for a business exceeds the fair value of the tangible and identifiable intangible assets acquired. Goodwill is allocated to reporting units for purposes of testing goodwill for impairment. There were no charges for goodwill impairment in the nine month periods ended September 30, 2015 and 2014. We have four reportable segments organized around our principal product lines: Aggregates, Asphalt Mix, Concrete and Calcium. Changes in the carrying amount of goodwill by reportable segment from December 31, 2014 to September 30, 2015 are summarized below: GOODWILL in thousands Aggregates Asphalt Mix Concrete Calcium Total Goodwill Total as of December 31, 2014 $ 3,003,191 $ 91,633 $ 0 $ 0 $ 3,094,824 Goodwill of acquired businesses Goodwill of divested businesses Total as of September 30, 2015 $ 3,003,191 $ 91,633 $ 0 $ 0 $ 3,094,824 We test goodwill for impairment on an annual basis or more frequently if events or circumstances change in a manner that would more likely than not reduce the fair value of a reporting unit below its carrying value. A decrease in the estimated fair value of one or more of our reporting units could result in the recognition of a material, noncash write-down of goodwill.

ACQUISITIONS AND DIVESTITURES

ACQUISITIONS AND DIVESTITURES	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2015
ACQUISITIONS AND DIVESTITURES [Abstract]
ACQUISITIONS AND DIVESTITURES	Note 16: Acquisitions and Divestitures ACQUISITIONS Through the nine months ended September 30, 2015, we purchased the following for $40,801,000 of consideration ( $20,801,000 cash and $20,000,000 exchanges of real property and businesses ( twelve California ready-mixed concrete operations)): § three aggregates facilities and seven ready-mixed concrete operations in Arizona and New Mexico § thirteen asphalt mix plants, primarily in Arizona As a result, we recognized $ 16,176,000 of amortizable intangible assets (contractual rights in place). The contractual rights in place will be amortized against earnings ( $7,168,000 - straight-line over 20 years and $9,008,000 - units of production over an estimated 50 years) and deductible for income tax purposes over 15 years. The purchase price allocation is preliminary pending appraisals of contractual rights in place and property, plant & equipment. For the full year 2014, we purchased the following for total consideration of $331,836,000 ( $284,237,000 cash; $2,414,000 exchanges of real property and businesses; and $45,185,000 of our common stock ( 715,004 shares)): § two portable asphalt plants and an aggregates facility in southern California § five aggregates facilities and associated downstream assets in Arizona and New Mexico § two aggregates facilities in Delaware, serving northern Virginia and Washington, D.C. § four aggregates facilities in the San Francisco Bay Area § a rail-connected aggregates operation and two distribution yards that serve the greater Dallas/Fort Worth market § a permitted aggregates quarry in Alabama DIVESTITURES AND PENDING DIVESTITURES As noted above, in the first quarter of 2015, we exchanged twelve ready-mixed concrete operations in California (representing all of our California concrete operations) for thirteen asphalt mix plants (primarily in Arizona) resulting in a pretax gain of $5,886,000 . For the full year 2014, we sold: § First quarter — our cement and concrete businesses in the Florida area for net pretax cash proceeds of $721,359,000 resulting in a pretax gain of $227,910,000 . We retained all of our Florida aggregates operations, our former Cement segment’s calcium operation in Brooksville, Florida and real estate associated with certain former ready-mixed concrete facilities. Under a separate supply agreement, we will continue to provide aggregates to the divested concrete facilities, at market prices, for a period of 20 years. As a result of the continuing cash flows (generated via the supply agreement and the retained operation and assets), the disposition is not reported as discontinued operations § First quarter — a previously mined and subsequently reclaimed tract of land in Maryland (Aggregates segment) for net pretax cash proceeds of $10,727,000 resulting in a pretax gain of $168,000 § First quarter — unimproved land in Tennessee previously containing a sales yard (Aggregates segment) for net pretax cash proceeds of $5,820,000 resulting in a pretax gain of $5,790,000 Effective land management is both a business strategy and a social responsibility. We strive to achieve value through our mining activities as well as incremental value through effective post-mining land management. Our land management strategy includes routinely reclaiming and selling our previously mined land. Additionally, this strategy includes developing conservation banks by preserving land as a suitable habitat for endangered or sensitive species. These conservation banks have received approval from the United States Fish and Wildlife Service to offer mitigation credits for sale to third parties who may be required to compensate for the loss of habitats of endangered or sensitive species. No assets met the criteria for held for sale at September 30, 2015 or 2014. As of December 31, 2014, twelve ready-mixed concrete facilities in California are presented in the accompanying Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheet as assets held for sale and liabilities of assets held for sale. During the first quarter of 2015, we swapped these read y-m ixed concrete facilities for thirteen asphalt mix operations, primarily in Arizona (as noted above). The major classes of assets and liabilities of assets classified as held for sale are as follows : September 30 December 31 September 30 in thousands Held for Sale Current assets $ 0 $ 1,773 $ 0 Property, plant & equipment, net Other intangible assets, net Total assets held for sale $ 0 $ 15,184 $ 0 Asset retirement obligations $ 0 $ 520 $ 0 Total liabilities of assets held for sale $ 0 $ 520 $ 0

NEW ACCOUNTING STANDARDS

NEW ACCOUNTING STANDARDS	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2015
NEW ACCOUNTING STANDARDS [Abstract]
NEW ACCOUNTING STANDARDS	Note 17: New Accounting Standards ACCOUNTING STANDARDS RECENTLY ADOPTED DEBT ISSUANCE COSTS As of and for the interim period ended June 30, 2015, we early adopted Accounting Standards Update (ASU) 2015-03, “Simplifying the Presentation of Debt Issuance Costs.” Under ASU 2015-03, debt issuance costs related to a note are presented in the balance sheet as a deduction from the related debt liability rather than as a prepaid expense (the amortization of such costs continues to be reported as interest expense). However, this ASU did not address the balance sheet presentation of debt issuance cost: (1) incurred before a debt liability is recognized or (2) associated with revolving debt arrangements, such as our line of credit. Accordingly, we elected an accounting policy to present these debt issuance costs as a deduction from the total debt liability. This ASU and related election are retrospectively applied to the beginning of the earliest period presented in the financial statements. As a result of the retrospective application of this change in accounting principle, we adjusted our Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets for all prior periods presented. Debt issuance costs of $20,805,000 and $21,893,000 previously reported as other noncurrent assets on the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets as of December 31, 2014 and September 30, 2014, respectively, have been reclassified as a deduction from the principal amount of the total debt liability. SHARE-BASED AWARDS As of and for the interim period ended March 31, 2015, we adopted ASU 2014-12, “Accounting for Share-Based Payments When the Terms of an Award Provide That a Performance Target Could Be Achieved After the Requisite Service Period.” This ASU clarified the proper method of accounting for share-based awards when the terms of an award provide that a performance target could be achieved after the requisite service period. Under prior guidance, there was a lack of consistency in the measurement of the grant-date fair values of awards with these types of performance targets. Under ASU 2014-12, a performance target that affects vesting and could be achieved after completion of the service period should be treated as a performance condition and, as a result, should not be included in the estimation of the grant-date fair value. Rather, an entity should recognize compensation cost for the award when it becomes probable that the performance target will be achieved. Previously, we accounted for share-based awards with these types of performance targets in accordance with ASU 2014-12. Our adoption of this standard had no material impact on our financial position, results of operations or liquidity. DISCONTINUED OPERATIONS REPORTING As of and for the interim period ended March 31, 2015, we adopted ASU 2014-08, “Reporting Discontinued Operations and Disclosures of Disposals of Components of an Entity.” This ASU changed the definition of and expanded the disclosure requirements for discontinued operations. Under the new definition, discontinued operations reporting is limited to disposals of components of an entity that represent strategic shifts that have (or will have) a major effect on an entity’s operations and financial results. The expanded disclosures for discontinued operations are meant to provide users of financial statements with more information about the assets, liabilities, revenues, and expenses of discontinued operations. Additionally, this ASU requires an entity to disclose the pretax profit or loss of an individually significant component of an entity that does not qualify for discontinued operations reporting. Our adoption of this standard had no material impact on our financial position, results of operations or liquidity. ACCOUNTING STANDARDS PENDING ADOPTION MEASUREMENT-PERIOD ADJUSTMENTS In September 2015, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) issued ASU 2015-16, “Simplifying the Accounting for Measurement-Period Adjustments,” which requires an acquirer to recognize measurement-period adjustments to provisional amounts in the reporting period in which the adjustments are determined. Previously, measurement-period adjustments were retrospectively applied. As an alternative to restating the prior periods for the measurement-period adjustments, the ASU requires acquirers to present separately on the face of the earnings statement, or disclose in the notes, the portion of the amount recorded in current-period earnings by line item that would have been recorded in previous reporting periods if the adjustments to the provisional amounts had been recognized as of the acquisition date. This ASU is to be applied prospectively to adjustments to provisional amounts that occur after December 15, 2015. Early adoption is permitted. We will adopt this standard as of and for the interim period ending March 31, 2016. While we are still evaluating the impact of ASU 2015-16, we do not expect the adoption of this standard to have a material impact on our consolidated financial statements. INVENTORY MEASUREMENT In July 2015, the FASB issued ASU 2015-11, “Simplifying the Measurement of Inventory,” which changes the measurement principle for inventory from the lower of cost or market principle to the lower of cost and net realizable value principle. The guidance applies to inventories that are measured using the first-in, first-out (FIFO) or average cost method, but does not apply to inventories that are measured by using the last-in, first-out (LIFO) or retail inventory method. We use the LIFO method for approximately 70% of our inventory (based on the December 31, 2014 balances); therefore, this ASU will not apply to the majority of our inventory. This ASU is effective prospectively for annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2016, and interim reporting periods within those annual reporting periods. Early adoption is permitted. We will adopt this standard as of and for the interim period ending March 31, 2017. While we are still evaluating the impact of ASU 2015-11, we do not expect the adoption of this standard to have a material impact on our consolidated financial statements. NET ASSET VALUE PER SHARE INVESTMENTS In May 2015, the FASB issued ASU 2015-07, “Disclosures for Investment in Certain Entities That Calculate Net Asset Value per Share (or Its Equivalent),” which removes the requirement to categorize investments within the fair value hierarchy when their fair value is measured using the net asset value per share practical expedient. This ASU also removes the requirement to make certain disclosures for investments that are eligible to be measured at fair value using the net asset value per share practical expedient. Rather, those disclosures would be limited to investments for which the entity has elected to measure the fair value using that practical expedient. This ASU is effective for annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2015, and interim reporting periods within those annual reporting periods. This ASU is to be applied retrospectively to all periods presented. Early adoption is permitted. We will adopt this standard as of and for the interim period ending March 31, 2016. While we are still evaluating the impact of ASU 2015-07, it will not impact our consolidated financial statements as it only affects disclosure. Thus, it will impact the notes to our consolidated financial statements, specifically, our pension plan fair value disclosures. CONSOLIDATION In February 2015, the FASB issued ASU 2015-02, “Amendments to the Consolidation Analysis,” which amends existing consolidation guidance for reporting entities that are required to evaluate whether they should consolidate certain legal entities. This ASU is effective for annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2015, and interim reporting periods within those annual reporting periods. Early adoption is permitted. We will adopt this standard as of and for the interim period ending March 31, 2016. We do not expect the adoption of this standard to have a material impact on our consolidated financial statements. GOING CONCERN In August 2014, the FASB issued ASU 2014-15, “Disclosure of Uncertainties About an Entity’s Ability to Continue as a Going Concern,” which requires management to perform interim and annual assessments of an entity’s ability to continue as a going concern (meet its obligations as they become due) within one year after the date that the financial statements are issued. If conditions or events raise substantial doubt about the entity’s ability to continue as a going concern, certain disclosures are required. This ASU is effective for annual reporting periods ending after December 15, 2016, and interim reporting periods thereafter. Early adoption is permitted. We will adopt this standard as of and for the annual period ending December 31, 2016. We do not expect the adoption of this standard to have a material impact on our consolidated financial statements. REVENUE RECOGNITION In May 2014, the FASB issued ASU 2014-09, “Revenue From Contracts With Customers,” which outlines a single comprehensive model for entities to use in accounting for revenue arising from contracts with customers and supersedes most current revenue recognition guidance, including industry-specific guidance. This ASU provides a more robust framework for addressing revenue issues and expands required revenue recognition disclosures. This ASU (as later amended) is effective for annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2017, and interim reporting periods within those annual reporting periods. Early adoption is permitted only as of annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2016, including interim reporting periods within that reporting period. We are currently evaluating the impact of adoption of this ASU on our consolidated financial statements.

SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUN23

SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Policy)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2015
SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES [Abstract]
NATURE OF OPERATIONS	NATURE OF OPERATIONS Vulcan Materials Company (the “Company,” “Vulcan,” “we,” “our”), a New Jersey corporation, is the nation's largest producer of construction aggregates (primarily crushed stone, sand and gravel) and a major producer of asphalt mix and ready-mixed concrete.
BASIS OF PRESENTATION	BASIS OF PRESENTATION Our accompanying unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements were prepared in compliance with the instructions to Form 10-Q and Article 10 of Regulation S-X and thus do not include all of the information and footnotes required by accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America for complete financial statements. Our Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheet as of December 31, 2014 was derived from the audited financial statement at that date. In the opinion of our management, the statements reflect all adjustments, including those of a normal recurring nature, necessary to present fairly the results of the reported interim periods. Operating results for the three and nine month periods ended September 30, 2015 are not necessarily indicative of the results that may be expected for the year ended December 31, 2015. For further information, refer to the consolidated financial statements and footnotes included in our most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K. Due to the 2005 sale of our Chemicals business as presented in Note 2, the operating results of the Chemicals business are presented as discontinued operations in the accompanying Condensed Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income.
RECLASSIFICATIONS	RECLASSIFICATIONS Certain items previously reported in specific financial statement captions have been reclassified to conform with the 2015 presentati on. We early adopted Accounting Standards Update (ASU) No. 2015-03, “Simplifying the Presentation of Debt Issuance Costs,” resulting in adjustments to our prior financial statements. See Note 17 for additional information.
RESTRUCTURING CHARGES	RESTRUCTURING CHARGES In 2014, we announced changes to our executive management team, and a new divisional organization structure that was effective January 1, 2015. During the three and nine months ended September 30, 2015, we incurred $448,000 and $4,546,000 , respectively, of costs related to these initiatives. During the three and nine months ended September 30, 2014, we incurred $750,000 of costs related to these initiatives. Future related charges for these initiatives are estimated to be immaterial .
EARNINGS PER SHARE (EPS)	EARNINGS PER SHARE (EPS) Earnings per share are computed by dividing net earnings by the weighted-average common shares outstanding (basic EPS) or weighted-average common shares outstanding assuming dilution (diluted EPS), as set forth below: Three Months Ended Nine Months Ended September 30 September 30 in thousands Weighted-average common shares outstanding Dilutive effect of Stock options/SOSARs 1 Other stock compensation plans Weighted-average common shares outstanding, assuming dilution Stock-Only Stock Appreciation Rights (SOSARs) All dilutive common stock equivalents are reflected in our earnings per share calculations. Antidilutive common stock equivalents are not included in our earnings per share calculations. In periods of loss, shares that otherwise would have been included in our diluted weighted-average common shares outstanding computation are excluded. There were no excluded shares for the periods presented. The number of antidilutive common stock equivalents for which the exercise price exceeds the weighted-average market price is as follows: Three Months Ended Nine Months Ended September 30 September 30 in thousands Antidilutive common stock equivalents

SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUN24

SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2015
SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES [Abstract]
Weighted-Average Common Shares Outstanding	Three Months Ended Nine Months Ended September 30 September 30 in thousands Weighted-average common shares outstanding Dilutive effect of Stock options/SOSARs 1 Other stock compensation plans Weighted-average common shares outstanding, assuming dilution Stock-Only Stock Appreciation Rights (SOSARs)
Antidilutive Common Stock Equivalents	Three Months Ended Nine Months Ended September 30 September 30 in thousands Antidilutive common stock equivalents

DISCONTINUED OPERATIONS (Tables

DISCONTINUED OPERATIONS (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2015
DISCONTINUED OPERATIONS [Abstract]
Results from Discontinued Operations	Three Months Ended Nine Months Ended September 30 September 30 in thousands Discontinued Operations Pretax loss $ (3,974) $ (1,393) $ (11,627) $ (3,132) Income tax benefit Loss on discontinued operations, net of income taxes $ (2,397) $ (842) $ (7,066) $ (1,896)

DEFERRED REVENUE (Tables)

DEFERRED REVENUE (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2015
DEFERRED REVENUE [Abstract]
Summary Of Recognized Deferred Revenue	Three Months Ended Nine Months Ended September 30 September 30 in thousands Deferred Revenue Balance at beginning of period $ 217,429 $ 222,589 $ 219,968 $ 224,743 Cash received and revenue deferred Amortization of deferred revenue Balance at end of period $ 215,651 $ 221,205 $ 215,651 $ 221,205

FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS (Tables

FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2015
FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS [Abstract]
Fair Value Measurement on Recurring Basis	Level 1 September 30 December 31 September 30 in thousands Fair Value Recurring Rabbi Trust Mutual funds $ 12,081 $ 15,532 $ 14,986 Equities Total $ 20,859 $ 26,780 $ 27,824 Level 2 September 30 December 31 September 30 in thousands Fair Value Recurring Rabbi Trust Common/collective trust funds $ 1,464 $ 1,415 $ 1,367 Total $ 1,464 $ 1,415 $ 1,367
Assets Subject to Fair Value Measurement on Nonrecurring Basis	Period ending September 30, 2015 Period ending September 30, 2014 Impairment Impairment in thousands Level 2 Charges Level 2 Charges Fair Value Nonrecurring Property, plant & equipment, net $ 0 $ 2,176 $ 2,280 $ 2,987 Other intangible assets, net Other assets Total $ 0 $ 5,190 $ 2,280 $ 2,987

DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS (Tables)

DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2015
DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS [Abstract]
Effects of Changes in Fair Values of Derivatives Designated as Cash Flow Hedges	Three Months Ended Nine Months Ended Location on September 30 September 30 in thousands Statement Cash Flow Hedges Loss reclassified from AOCI Interest (effective portion) expense $ (467) $ (989) $ (9,282) $ (6,892)
Amortization Table	Three Months Ended Nine Months Ended September 30 September 30 in thousands Deferred Gain on Settlement Amortized to earnings as a reduction to interest expense $ 282 $ 493 $ 2,795 $ 10,171

DEBT (Tables)

DEBT (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2015
DEBT [Abstract]
Summary of Debt	Effective September 30 December 31 September 30 in thousands Interest Rates Short-term Debt Bank line of credit expires 2020 1, 2 n/a $ 0 $ 0 $ 0 Total short-term debt $ 0 $ 0 $ 0 Long-term Debt Bank line of credit expires 2020 1, 2, 3 $ 85,000 $ 0 $ 0 10.125% notes due 2015 4 6.50% notes due 2016 n/a 6.40% notes due 2017 n/a 7.00% notes due 2018 10.375% notes due 2018 7.50% notes due 2021 8.85% notes due 2021 Industrial revenue bond due 2022 n/a 4.50% notes due 2025 7.15% notes due 2037 Other notes 2 Unamortized discounts and debt issuance costs n/a Unamortized deferred interest rate swap gain 5 n/a Total long-term debt including current maturities 6 $ 1,979,623 $ 1,984,779 $ 1,984,220 Less current maturities Total long-term debt $ 1,979,493 $ 1,834,642 $ 1,984,075 Total debt 7 $ 1,979,623 $ 1,984,779 $ 1,984,220 Estimated fair value of long-term debt $ 2,191,361 $ 2,092,673 $ 2,237,325 Borrowings on the bank line of credit are classified as short-term debt if we intend to repay within twelve months and as long-term debt otherwise. Non-publicly traded debt. The effective interest rate is the current credit spread over LIBOR. The 10.125% notes due 2015 are classified as long-term debt (not current maturities) as of September 30, 2015 due to our intent and ability to refinance these notes at maturity (December 15, 2015) using our line of credit. The unamortized deferred gain was realized upon the August 2011 settlement of interest rate swaps as discussed in Note 6. The debt balances as of December 31, 2014 and September 30, 2014 have been adjusted to reflect our early adoption of ASU 2015-03 and related election as discussed in Note 17. Face value of our debt is equal to t otal debt less u namortized discounts and debt issuance costs, and u namortized deferred interest rate swap gain, as follows : September 30, 2015 — $2,004,203 thousand, December 31, 2014 — $2,004,459 thousand and September 30, 2014 — $2,004,575 thousand.
Summary of Standby Letters of Credit	in thousands Standby Letters of Credit Risk management insurance $ 33,111 Reclamation/restoration requirements Total $ 38,864

ASSET RETIREMENT OBLIGATIONS (T

ASSET RETIREMENT OBLIGATIONS (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2015
ASSET RETIREMENT OBLIGATIONS [Abstract]
Asset Retirement Obligations Operating Costs	Three Months Ended Nine Months Ended September 30 September 30 in thousands ARO Operating Costs Accretion $ 2,766 $ 2,892 $ 8,553 $ 8,745 Depreciation Total $ 4,447 $ 3,972 $ 13,236 $ 11,805
Reconciliations of Asset Retirement Obligations	Three Months Ended Nine Months Ended September 30 September 30 in thousands Asset Retirement Obligations Balance at beginning of period $ 234,919 $ 225,117 $ 226,565 $ 228,234 Liabilities incurred Liabilities settled Accretion expense Revisions up, net Balance at end of period $ 234,680 $ 228,468 $ 234,680 $ 228,468

BENEFIT PLANS (Tables)

BENEFIT PLANS (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2015
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Components of Net Periodic Benefit Cost	PENSION BENEFITS Three Months Ended Nine Months Ended September 30 September 30 in thousands Components of Net Periodic Benefit Cost Service cost $ 1,213 $ 1,039 $ 3,638 $ 3,118 Interest cost Expected return on plan assets Settlement charge Amortization of prior service cost Amortization of actuarial loss Net periodic pension benefit cost $ 5,960 $ 2,289 $ 14,023 $ 6,867 Pretax reclassifications from AOCI included in net periodic pension benefit cost $ 7,426 $ 2,853 $ 18,359 $ 8,557
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Components of Net Periodic Benefit Cost	OTHER POSTRETIREMENT BENEFITS Three Months Ended Nine Months Ended September 30 September 30 in thousands Components of Net Periodic Benefit Cost Service cost $ 473 $ 536 $ 1,420 $ 1,609 Interest cost Curtailment gain Amortization of prior service credit Amortization of actuarial loss Net periodic postretirement benefit cost (credit) $ 45 $ 336 $ 138 $ (2,825) Pretax reclassifications from AOCI included in net periodic postretirement benefit credit $ (1,049) $ (1,024) $ (3,146) $ (6,907)

OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (Tab

OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2015
EQUITY [Abstract]
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) Net Of Tax	September 30 December 31 September 30 in thousands AOCI Cash flow hedges $ (14,715) $ (20,322) $ (21,011) Pension and postretirement benefit plans Total $ (146,846) $ (161,714) $ (91,515)
Changes In Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)	Pension and Cash Flow Postretirement in thousands Hedges Benefit Plans Total AOCI Balance as of December 31, 2014 $ (20,322) $ (141,392) $ (161,714) Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications Amounts reclassified from AOCI Net current period OCI changes Balance as of September 30, 2015 $ (14,715) $ (132,131) $ (146,846)
Reclassification of Amounts from Other Comprehensive Income Loss to Earnings	Three Months Ended Nine Months Ended September 30 September 30 in thousands Reclassification Adjustment for Cash Flow Hedge Losses Interest expense $ 467 $ 989 $ 9,282 $ 6,892 (Benefit from) provision for income taxes Total 1 $ 282 $ 598 $ 5,607 $ 4,167 Amortization of Pension and Postretirement Plan Actuarial Loss and Prior Service Cost Cost of revenues $ 5,242 $ 1,465 $ 12,417 $ 1,324 Selling, administrative and general expenses (Benefit from) provision for income taxes Total 2 $ 3,883 $ 1,114 $ 9,261 $ 1,006 Total reclassifications from AOCI to earnings $ 4,165 $ 1,712 $ 14,868 $ 5,173 Nine months ended September 30, 2015 and 2014 include the acceleration of a proportional amount of deferred interest rate derivatives (see Note 6) referable to debt purchases (see Note 7). Nine months ended September 30, 2015 includes a one-time settlement loss resulting from a lump sum payment to a former employee (see Note 10). Nine months ended September 30, 2014 includes a one-time curtailment gain (see Note 10) resulting from the sale of our cement and concrete businesses in the Florida area (see Note 16).

EQUITY (Tables)

EQUITY (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2015
EQUITY [Abstract]
Change In Total Equity	Total in thousands Equity Balance at December 31, 2014 $ 4,176,699 Net earnings Common stock issued Share-based compensation plans Share-based compensation expense Excess tax benefits from share-based compensation Cash dividends on common stock ($0.30 per share) Other comprehensive income Other Balance at September 30, 2015 $ 4,363,277

SEGMENT REPORTING (Tables)

SEGMENT REPORTING (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2015
SEGMENT REPORTING [Abstract]
Segment Financial Disclosure	Three Months Ended Nine Months Ended September 30 September 30 in millions Total Revenues Aggregates 1 $ 830.8 $ 688.9 $ 2,067.7 $ 1,752.6 Asphalt Mix 2 Concrete 2, 3 Calcium 4 Segment sales Aggregates intersegment sales Calcium intersegment sales Total revenues $ 1,038.5 $ 873.6 $ 2,564.9 $ 2,239.1 Gross Profit Aggregates $ 250.9 $ 188.0 $ 525.8 $ 388.1 Asphalt Mix 2 Concrete 2, 3 Calcium 4 Total $ 291.3 $ 209.0 $ 603.6 $ 417.9 Depreciation, Depletion, Accretion and Amortization (DDA&A) Aggregates $ 57.7 $ 58.5 $ 170.3 $ 169.2 Asphalt Mix 2 Concrete 2, 3 Calcium 4 Other Total $ 69.7 $ 71.2 $ 204.8 $ 208.9 Identifiable Assets 5 Aggregates $ 7,533.2 $ 7,409.1 Asphalt Mix 2 Concrete 2, 3 Calcium 4 Total identifiable assets $ 8,042.1 $ 7,888.8 General corporate assets Cash items Total $ 8,316.9 $ 8,069.6 Includes crushed stone, sand and gravel, sand, other aggregates, as well as freight, delivery and transportation revenues, and other revenues related to services. In January 2015, we exchanged our California ready-mixed concrete operations for 13 asphalt mix plants, primarily in Arizona (see Note 16). Includes ready-mixed concrete. In March 2014, we sold our concrete business in the Florida area (see Note 16) which in addition to ready-mixed concrete, included concrete block, precast concrete, as well as building materials purchased for resale. Includes cement and calcium products. In March 2014, we sold our cement business (see Note 16). Certain temporarily idled assets are included within a segment's Identifiable Assets but the associated DDA&A is shown within Other in the DDA&A section above as the related DDA&A is excluded from segment gross profit.

SUPPLEMENTAL CASH FLOW INFORM35

SUPPLEMENTAL CASH FLOW INFORMATION (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2015
SUPPLEMENTAL CASH FLOW INFORMATION [Abstract]
Supplemental Information Referable to Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows	Nine Months Ended September 30 in thousands Cash Payments Interest (exclusive of amount capitalized) $ 136,123 $ 163,593 Income taxes Noncash Investing and Financing Activities Accrued liabilities for purchases of property, plant & equipment $ 11,941 $ 5,777 Amounts referable to business acquisitions Liabilities assumed Fair value of noncash assets and liabilities exchanged Fair value of equity consideration

GOODWILL (Tables)

GOODWILL (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2015
GOODWILL [Abstract]
Changes in Carrying Amount of Goodwill by Reportable Segment	in thousands Aggregates Asphalt Mix Concrete Calcium Total Goodwill Total as of December 31, 2014 $ 3,003,191 $ 91,633 $ 0 $ 0 $ 3,094,824 Goodwill of acquired businesses Goodwill of divested businesses Total as of September 30, 2015 $ 3,003,191 $ 91,633 $ 0 $ 0 $ 3,094,824

ACQUISITIONS AND DIVESTITURES (

ACQUISITIONS AND DIVESTITURES (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2015
ACQUISITIONS AND DIVESTITURES [Abstract]
Classification of Assets and Liabilities Held for Sale	September 30 December 31 September 30 in thousands Held for Sale Current assets $ 0 $ 1,773 $ 0 Property, plant & equipment, net Other intangible assets, net Total assets held for sale $ 0 $ 15,184 $ 0 Asset retirement obligations $ 0 $ 520 $ 0 Total liabilities of assets held for sale $ 0 $ 520 $ 0

SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUN38

SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Narrative) (Details) - USD ($)	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2015	Sep. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2015	Sep. 30, 2014
SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES [Abstract]
Restructuring charges	$ 448,000	$ 750,000	$ 4,546,000	$ 750,000
Antidilutive weighted-average common stock equivalents			0

SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUN39

SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Weighted-Average Common Shares Outstanding) (Details) - shares shares in Thousands		3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
		Sep. 30, 2015	Sep. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2015	Sep. 30, 2014
Weighted Average Number Of Shares Outstanding
Weighted-average common shares outstanding		133,474	131,797	133,082	131,256
Dilutive effect of
Stock options/SOSARs	[1]	919	661	1,024	671
Other stock compensation plans		1,165	911	836	832
Weighted-average common shares outstanding, assuming dilution		135,558	133,369	134,942	132,759
[1]	Stock-Only Stock Appreciation Rights (SOSARs)

SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUN40

SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Antidilutive Common Stock Equivalents) (Details) - shares shares in Thousands	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2015	Sep. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2015	Sep. 30, 2014
SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES [Abstract]
Antidilutive common stock equivalents	545	2,355	555	2,355

DISCONTINUED OPERATIONS (Result

DISCONTINUED OPERATIONS (Results from Discontinued Operations) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2015	Sep. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2015	Sep. 30, 2014
Discontinued Operations
Pretax loss	$ (3,974)	$ (1,393)	$ (11,627)	$ (3,132)
Income tax benefit	1,577	551	4,561	1,236
Loss on discontinued operations, net of income taxes	$ (2,397)	$ (842)	$ (7,066)	$ (1,896)

INCOME TAXES (Narrative) (Detai

INCOME TAXES (Narrative) (Details) - USD ($)	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2015	Sep. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2015	Sep. 30, 2014
Income Taxes [Line Items]
Provision for income taxes	$ 45,386,000	$ 31,066,000	$ 51,177,000	$ 71,947,000
State net operating loss carryforwards, Deferred Tax Asset	62,170,000		62,170,000
Decrease in valuation allowance			4,655,000
Alabama [Member]
Income Taxes [Line Items]
State net operating loss carryforwards, Deferred Tax Asset	$ 59,354,000		$ 59,354,000

DEFERRED REVENUE (Narrative) (D

DEFERRED REVENUE (Narrative) (Details) T in Millions	1 Months Ended		3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013USD ($)T	Dec. 31, 2012USD ($)T	Sep. 30, 2015USD ($)	Sep. 30, 2014USD ($)	Sep. 30, 2015USD ($)propertyagreement	Sep. 30, 2014USD ($)	Sep. 30, 2016USD ($)
Deferred Revenue Arrangement [Line Items]
Number of volumetric production payment transactions | agreement					2
Number of facilities					8
Owned quarries					7
Leased quarries					1
Proceeds from sale of production | $	$ 153,282,000	$ 73,644,000	$ 0	$ 0	$ 0	$ 187,000
Volumetric production payment termination date	Sep. 30, 2051	Dec. 31, 2052
Volumetric production payment estimated percentage sold	11.50%	10.50%
Volumetric production payment estimated tons to be delivered | T	29	15
Maximum [Member]
Deferred Revenue Arrangement [Line Items]
Tons subject to volumetric production payment | T	250.8	143.2
Scenario, Forecast [Member]
Deferred Revenue Arrangement [Line Items]
Estimated deferred revenue to be recognized in the next 12 months | $							$ 6,000,000

DEFERRED REVENUE (Summary Of Re

DEFERRED REVENUE (Summary Of Recognized Deferred Revenue) (Details) - USD ($)	1 Months Ended		3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Sep. 30, 2015	Sep. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2015	Sep. 30, 2014
DEFERRED REVENUE [Abstract]
Balance at beginning of period			$ 217,429,000	$ 222,589,000	$ 219,968,000	$ 224,743,000
Cash received and revenue deferred	$ 153,282,000	$ 73,644,000	0	0	0	187,000
Amortization of deferred revenue			(1,778,000)	(1,384,000)	(4,317,000)	(3,725,000)
Balance at end of period			$ 215,651,000	$ 221,205,000	$ 215,651,000	$ 221,205,000

FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS (Narrat

FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS (Narrative) (Details)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2015USD ($)item	Sep. 30, 2014USD ($)
Fair Value Assets And Liabilities Measured On Recurring And Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Number of Rabbi Trust established | item	2
Total gain of the Rabbi Trust investment	$ (1,964,000)	$ 2,571,000
Unrealized gains (losses)	(2,068,000)	369,000
Fair Value, Measurements, Nonrecurring [Member]
Fair Value Assets And Liabilities Measured On Recurring And Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Loss on impairment of long-lived assets	5,190,000	2,987,000
Fair Value, Measurements, Nonrecurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]
Fair Value Assets And Liabilities Measured On Recurring And Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Assets subject to fair value measurement on a nonrecurring basis	$ 0	$ 2,280,000

FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS (Fair V

FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS (Fair Value Measurement of Assets on Recurring Basis) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Sep. 30, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Sep. 30, 2014
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Assets fair value, recurring	$ 20,859	$ 26,780	$ 27,824
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member] | Mutual Funds [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Assets fair value, recurring	12,081	15,532	14,986
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member] | Equities [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Assets fair value, recurring	8,778	11,248	12,838
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Assets fair value, recurring	1,464	1,415	1,367
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] | Common/Collective Trust Funds [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Assets fair value, recurring	$ 1,464	$ 1,415	$ 1,367

FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS (Assets

FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS (Assets Subject to Fair Value Measurement on Nonrecurring Basis) (Details) - Fair Value, Measurements, Nonrecurring [Member] - USD ($)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2015	Sep. 30, 2014
Fair Value Nonrecurring
Property, plant & equipment, Impairment Charges	$ 2,176,000	$ 2,987,000
Other intangible assets net, Impairment Charges	2,858,000	0
Other Asset Impairment Charges	156,000	0
Loss on impairment of long-lived assets	5,190,000	2,987,000
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]
Fair Value Nonrecurring
Property, plant & equipment	0	2,280,000
Other Intangible Assets, Net	0	0
Other Assets, Fair Value Disclosure	0	0
Total	$ 0	$ 2,280,000

DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS (Narrati

DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS (Narrative) (Details)	1 Months Ended	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended		12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2011USD ($)	Sep. 30, 2015USD ($)	Sep. 30, 2014USD ($)	Sep. 30, 2015USD ($)	Sep. 30, 2014USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2007USD ($)agreement	Sep. 30, 2016USD ($)	Apr. 30, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014USD ($)	Mar. 31, 2014	Jun. 30, 2011USD ($)
Derivative Disclosure [Line Items]
Number of forward starting interest rate swap agreements | agreement						15
Payments for (Proceeds from) settlement of interest rate swap agreements	$ 25,382,000					$ 89,777,000
Loss reclassified from AOCI				$ 7,208,000	$ 3,762,000
Long-term notes issued		$ 2,004,203,000	$ 2,004,575,000	2,004,203,000	2,004,575,000				$ 2,004,459,000
Forward component of the settlement	23,387,000
Accrued interest income	$ 1,995,000
Amortized deferred gain		$ 282,000	$ 493,000	$ 2,795,000	10,171,000
6.50% notes due 2016 [Member]
Derivative Disclosure [Line Items]
Long-term notes issued											$ 500,000,000
Interest rate		6.50%		6.50%				6.50%		6.50%	6.50%
10.125% notes due 2015 [Member]
Derivative Disclosure [Line Items]
Interest rate		10.125%		10.125%							10.125%
Interest Rate Swap Agreements [Member]
Derivative Disclosure [Line Items]
Derviative, notional amount						$ 1,500,000,000
Interest Rate Swap Agreement One [Member]
Derivative Disclosure [Line Items]
Derviative, notional amount											$ 500,000,000
Interest rate spread above London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR)											4.05%
Fixed interest rate under swap agreement											6.50%
Interest Rate Swap Agreement Two [Member]
Derivative Disclosure [Line Items]
Derviative, notional amount											$ 150,000,000
Interest rate spread above London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR)											8.03%
Fixed interest rate under swap agreement											10.125%
Debt [Member]
Derivative Disclosure [Line Items]
Amortized deferred gain				$ 1,642,000	$ 8,032,000
Scenario, Forecast [Member]
Derivative Disclosure [Line Items]
Estimated amount of pretax loss in AOCI related to interest rate swap that would be reclassified to earnings within the next 12 months							$ 1,967,000

DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS (Effects

DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS (Effects Of Changes In Fair Values Of Derivatives Designated As Cash Flow Hedges) (Details) - USD ($)	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2015	Sep. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2015	Sep. 30, 2014
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]
Loss reclassified from AOCI (effective portion)			$ (7,208,000)	$ (3,762,000)
Interest Rate Swap [Member] | Cash Flow Hedging [Member] | Interest Expense [Member]
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]
Loss reclassified from AOCI (effective portion)	$ (467,000)	$ (989,000)	$ (9,282,000)	$ (6,892,000)

DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS (Reflect

DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS (Reflection of Amortization) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2015	Sep. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2015	Sep. 30, 2014
DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS [Abstract]
Amortized to earnings as a reduction to interest expense	$ 282	$ 493	$ 2,795	$ 10,171

DEBT (Narrative) (Details)

DEBT (Narrative) (Details)		1 Months Ended				3 Months Ended			9 Months Ended
		Oct. 31, 2016	Apr. 30, 2015USD ($)	Mar. 31, 2015USD ($)	Mar. 31, 2014USD ($)	Sep. 30, 2015USD ($)	Mar. 31, 2015USD ($)	Mar. 31, 2014USD ($)	Sep. 30, 2015USD ($)	Sep. 30, 2014USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2014USD ($)	Jun. 30, 2011USD ($)
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt issued, amount						$ 2,004,203,000			$ 2,004,203,000	$ 2,004,575,000	$ 2,004,459,000
Debt purchased, amount					$ 506,366,000			$ 506,366,000
Total consideration paid for debt					579,659,000	385,024,000			751,056,000	649,711,000
Premium paid for purchase of debt					$ 71,829,000	41,153,000		71,829,000	41,153,000
Transaction cost related to termination of debt						52,000		1,464,000
Other cost (benefit) related to debt purchase						4,136,000		(344,000)
Cost of debt purchase						45,341,000		$ 72,949,000	$ 67,075,000	72,949,000
Debt to EBITDA ratio									3.5
EBITDA to net cash interest expense ratio									3
Transaction fees									$ 7,382,000	0
Short-term debt (line of credit)						0			0	0	0
Long term debt	[1]					$ 1,979,623,000			$ 1,979,623,000	1,984,220,000	1,984,779,000
Period of letters of credit									1 year
4.50% notes due 2025 [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt issued, amount				$ 400,000,000			$ 400,000,000
Interest rate				4.50%		4.50%	4.50%		4.50%
Debt issued, net proceeds				$ 395,207,000
Maturity year							2,025		2,025
Long term debt						$ 400,000,000			$ 400,000,000	0	0
7.00% notes due 2018 [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Interest rate			7.00%			7.00%			7.00%
Maturity year			2,018				2,018		2,018
Debt purchased, amount			$ 185,000	127,303,000			$ 127,303,000
Total consideration paid for debt				145,899,000
Premium paid for purchase of debt				18,140,000			18,140,000
Transaction cost related to termination of debt				456,000
Other cost (benefit) related to debt purchase				$ 3,138,000
Cost of debt purchase							$ 21,734,000
Long term debt						$ 272,512,000			$ 272,512,000	400,000,000	400,000,000
Principal amount, percentage									32.00%
6.40% notes due 2017 [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Interest rate			6.40%		6.40%	6.40%		6.40%	6.40%
Debt purchased, redemption date									Apr. 1, 2015
Maturity year			2,017					2,017	2,017
Debt purchased, amount			$ 218,633,000		$ 131,367,000			$ 131,367,000
Long term debt						$ 0			$ 0	218,633,000	218,633,000
Principal amount, percentage									100.00%
6.50% notes due 2016 [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt issued, amount												$ 500,000,000
Interest rate			6.50%		6.50%	6.50%		6.50%	6.50%			6.50%
Debt purchased, redemption date									Apr. 1, 2015
Maturity year			2,016					2,016	2,016
Debt purchased, amount			$ 125,001,000		$ 374,999,000			$ 374,999,000
Long term debt						$ 0			$ 0	125,001,000	125,001,000
Principal amount, percentage									100.00%
8.85% notes due 2021 [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Interest rate						8.85%			8.85%
Maturity year									2,021
Long term debt						$ 6,000,000			$ 6,000,000	6,000,000	6,000,000
10.125% notes due 2015 [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Interest rate						10.125%			10.125%			10.125%
Maturity year									2,015
Long term debt	[2]					$ 150,000,000			$ 150,000,000	150,000,000	150,000,000
Other Notes
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Long term debt	[3]					503,000			$ 503,000	753,000	637,000
Standby Letters of Credit [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Applicable margin on borrowing rate									0.175%
Commitment fee									0.25%
Scenario, Forecast [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt to EBITDA ratio		3.25
Minimum [Member] | Standby Letters of Credit [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Commitment fee									0.10%
Maximum [Member] | Standby Letters of Credit [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Commitment fee									0.35%
Industrial revenue bonds [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Maturity year									2,022
Long term debt						0			$ 0	14,000,000	14,000,000
Bank line of Credit [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Long term debt	[3],[4],[5]					85,000,000			$ 85,000,000	0	0
Bank line of Credit [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Facility expiration date									Jun. 1, 2020
Borrowing capacity						626,136,000			$ 626,136,000
Line Of Credit Facility Maximum Borrowing Capacity						750,000,000			750,000,000
Transaction fees									2,589,000
Short-term debt (line of credit)	[3],[4]					0			$ 0	$ 0	$ 0
Applicable margin on borrowing rate									1.75%
Bank line of Credit [Member] | Cancelled line of Credit [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Line Of Credit Facility Maximum Borrowing Capacity						500,000,000			$ 500,000,000
Bank line of Credit [Member] | New line of Credit [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Line Of Credit Facility Maximum Borrowing Capacity						750,000,000			$ 750,000,000
Bank line of Credit [Member] | SunTrust Bank [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Applicable margin on borrowing rate									0.75%
Bank line of Credit [Member] | Minimum [Member] | London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR) [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Applicable margin on borrowing rate									1.00%
Bank line of Credit [Member] | Minimum [Member] | SunTrust Bank [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Applicable margin on borrowing rate									0.00%
Bank line of Credit [Member] | Maximum [Member] | London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR) [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Applicable margin on borrowing rate									2.00%
Bank line of Credit [Member] | Maximum [Member] | SunTrust Bank [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Applicable margin on borrowing rate									1.00%
Standby Letters of Credit [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Other Liabilities						$ 38,864,000			$ 38,864,000
[1]	The debt balances as of December 31, 2014 and September 30, 2014 have been adjusted to reflect our early adoption of ASU 2015-03 and related election as discussed in Note 17.
[2]	The 10.125% notes due 2015 are classified as long-term debt (not current maturities) as of September 30, 2015 due to our intent and ability to refinance these notes at maturity (December 15, 2015) using our line of credit.
[3]	Non-publicly traded debt.
[4]	Borrowings on the bank line of credit are classified as short-term debt if we intend to repay within twelve months and as long-term debt otherwise.
[5]	The effective interest rate is the current credit spread over LIBOR.

DEBT (Summary of Debt) (Details

DEBT (Summary of Debt) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands		Sep. 30, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Sep. 30, 2014
Short-term Debt [Abstract]
Total short-term debt		$ 0	$ 0	$ 0
Long Term Debt
Total long-term debt including current maturities	[1]	1,979,623	1,984,779	1,984,220
Unamortized discounts and debt issuance cost		(24,821)	(22,716)	(23,893)
Less current maturities		130	150,137	145
Total long-term debt		1,979,493	1,834,642	1,984,075
Total debt	[2]	1,979,623	1,984,779	1,984,220
Estimated fair value of long-term debt		2,191,361	2,092,673	2,237,325
10.125% notes due 2015 [Member]
Long Term Debt
Total long-term debt including current maturities	[3]	150,000	150,000	150,000
6.50% notes due 2016 [Member]
Long Term Debt
Total long-term debt including current maturities		0	125,001	125,001
6.40% notes due 2017 [Member]
Long Term Debt
Total long-term debt including current maturities		0	218,633	218,633
7.00% notes due 2018 [Member]
Long Term Debt
Total long-term debt including current maturities		272,512	400,000	400,000
10.375% notes due 2018 [Member]
Long Term Debt
Total long-term debt including current maturities		250,000	250,000	250,000
7.50% notes due 2021 [Member]
Long Term Debt
Total long-term debt including current maturities		600,000	600,000	600,000
8.85% notes due 2021 [Member]
Long Term Debt
Total long-term debt including current maturities		6,000	6,000	6,000
4.50% notes due 2025 [Member]
Long Term Debt
Total long-term debt including current maturities		400,000	0	0
7.15% notes due 2037 [Member]
Long Term Debt
Total long-term debt including current maturities		240,188	240,188	240,188
Other Notes
Long Term Debt
Total long-term debt including current maturities	[4]	503	637	753
10.125% notes due 2015 and 6.50% notes due 2016 [Member]
Long Term Debt
Unamortized deferred interest rate swap gain	[5]	241	3,036	3,538
Bank line of Credit [Member]
Short-term Debt [Abstract]
Total short-term debt	[4],[6]	0	0	0
Industrial revenue bonds [Member]
Long Term Debt
Total long-term debt including current maturities		0	14,000	14,000
Bank line of Credit [Member]
Long Term Debt
Total long-term debt including current maturities	[4],[6],[7]	$ 85,000	$ 0	$ 0
[1]	The debt balances as of December 31, 2014 and September 30, 2014 have been adjusted to reflect our early adoption of ASU 2015-03 and related election as discussed in Note 17.
[2]	Face value of our debt is equal to total debt less unamortized discounts and debt issuance costs, and unamortized deferred interest rate swap gain, as follows: September 30, 2015 - $2,004,203 thousand, December 31, 2014 - $2,004,459 thousand and September 30, 2014 - $2,004,575 thousand.
[3]	The 10.125% notes due 2015 are classified as long-term debt (not current maturities) as of September 30, 2015 due to our intent and ability to refinance these notes at maturity (December 15, 2015) using our line of credit.
[4]	Non-publicly traded debt.
[5]	The unamortized deferred gain was realized upon the August 2011 settlement of interest rate swaps as discussed in Note 6.
[6]	Borrowings on the bank line of credit are classified as short-term debt if we intend to repay within twelve months and as long-term debt otherwise.
[7]	The effective interest rate is the current credit spread over LIBOR.

DEBT (Summary of Debt Additiona

DEBT (Summary of Debt Additional Information) (Details) - USD ($)		1 Months Ended	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
		Apr. 30, 2015	Mar. 31, 2015	Mar. 31, 2014	Sep. 30, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Sep. 30, 2014	Jun. 30, 2011
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt Instrument Face Amount					$ 2,004,203,000	$ 2,004,459,000	$ 2,004,575,000
10.125% notes due 2015 [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Interest rate					10.125%			10.125%
Maturity year					2,015
Effective interest rate	[1]				9.58%
6.50% notes due 2016 [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Interest rate		6.50%		6.50%	6.50%			6.50%
Maturity year		2,016		2,016	2,016
Debt Instrument Face Amount								$ 500,000,000
6.40% notes due 2017 [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Interest rate		6.40%		6.40%	6.40%
Maturity year		2,017		2,017	2,017
7.00% notes due 2018 [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Interest rate		7.00%			7.00%
Maturity year		2,018	2,018		2,018
Effective interest rate					7.87%
10.375% notes due 2018 [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Interest rate					10.375%
Maturity year					2,018
Effective interest rate					10.63%
7.50% notes due 2021 [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Interest rate					7.50%
Maturity year					2,021
Effective interest rate					7.75%
8.85% notes due 2021 [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Interest rate					8.85%
Maturity year					2,021
Effective interest rate					8.88%
4.50% notes due 2025 [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Interest rate			4.50%		4.50%
Maturity year			2,025		2,025
Effective interest rate					4.65%
Debt Instrument Face Amount			$ 400,000,000
7.15% notes due 2037 [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Interest rate					7.15%
Maturity year					2,037
Effective interest rate					8.05%
Other Notes
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Effective interest rate	[2]				6.25%
Industrial revenue bonds [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Maturity year					2,022
Bank line of Credit [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Effective interest rate	[2],[3],[4]				1.75%
[1]	The 10.125% notes due 2015 are classified as long-term debt (not current maturities) as of September 30, 2015 due to our intent and ability to refinance these notes at maturity (December 15, 2015) using our line of credit.
[2]	Non-publicly traded debt.
[3]	Borrowings on the bank line of credit are classified as short-term debt if we intend to repay within twelve months and as long-term debt otherwise.
[4]	The effective interest rate is the current credit spread over LIBOR.

DEBT (Summary Of Standby Letter

DEBT (Summary Of Standby Letters Of Credit) (Details) - USD ($)	Sep. 30, 2015	Jun. 30, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Sep. 30, 2014	Jun. 30, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Standby Letters of Credit
Reclamation/restoration requirements	$ 234,680,000	$ 234,919,000	$ 226,565,000	$ 228,468,000	$ 225,117,000	$ 228,234,000
Standby Letters of Credit [Member]
Standby Letters of Credit
Risk management insurance	33,111,000
Reclamation/restoration requirements	5,753,000
Total	$ 38,864,000

COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES (

COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES (Narrative) (Details)	1 Months Ended	9 Months Ended
	May. 31, 2007entitymi	Sep. 30, 2015USD ($)
Commitments And Contingencies Disclosure [Line Items]
Number of other companies to perform a Remedial Investigation/ Feasibility Study related to the Lower Passaic River Clean-Up lawsuit | entity	70
Number of miles of the River used in the Remedial Investigation/Feasibility Study | mi	17
Texas Brine and Occidental Chemical Co [Member]
Commitments And Contingencies Disclosure [Line Items]
Total amount of damages claimed		$ 500,000,000
Cooperating Parties Group [Member]
Commitments And Contingencies Disclosure [Line Items]
Estimated operation and maintenance costs		$ 93,000,000
Estimated operation and maintenance costs, Period		30 years
Minimum [Member] | EPA [Member]
Commitments And Contingencies Disclosure [Line Items]
Estimated implementation costs		$ 950,000,000
Minimum [Member] | Cooperating Parties Group [Member]
Commitments And Contingencies Disclosure [Line Items]
Estimated implementation costs		475,000,000
Maximum [Member] | EPA [Member]
Commitments And Contingencies Disclosure [Line Items]
Estimated implementation costs		1,730,000,000
Maximum [Member] | Cooperating Parties Group [Member]
Commitments And Contingencies Disclosure [Line Items]
Estimated implementation costs		725,000,000
Standby Letters of Credit [Member]
Commitments And Contingencies Disclosure [Line Items]
Other Liabilities		$ 38,864,000

ASSET RETIREMENT OBLIGATIONS (A

ASSET RETIREMENT OBLIGATIONS (Asset Retirement Obligations Operating Costs) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2015	Sep. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2015	Sep. 30, 2014
ARO Operating Costs
Accretion	$ 2,766	$ 2,892	$ 8,553	$ 8,745
Depreciation	1,681	1,080	4,683	3,060
Total	$ 4,447	$ 3,972	$ 13,236	$ 11,805

ASSET RETIREMENT OBLIGATIONS (R

ASSET RETIREMENT OBLIGATIONS (Reconciliations Of Asset Retirement Obligations) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2015	Sep. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2015	Sep. 30, 2014
Asset Retirement Obligations
Balance at beginning of period	$ 234,919	$ 225,117	$ 226,565	$ 228,234
Liabilities incurred	0	3,604	6,159	3,604
Liabilities settled	(5,318)	(7,684)	(13,318)	(20,527)
Accretion expense	2,766	2,892	8,553	8,745
Revisions up, net	2,313	4,539	6,721	8,412
Balance at end of period	$ 234,680	$ 228,468	$ 234,680	$ 228,468

BENEFIT PLANS (Narrative) (Deta

BENEFIT PLANS (Narrative) (Details) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2015USD ($)entity	Sep. 30, 2014USD ($)	Sep. 30, 2015USD ($)entityitem	Sep. 30, 2014USD ($)
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Number of funded, noncontributory defined benefit pension plans | entity	3		3
Number of unfunded, nonqualified pension plans | entity			3
Normal retirement age | item			65
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Settlement charge	$ (2,031)	$ 0	$ (2,031)	$ 0
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
One-time curtailment gain	$ 0	$ 0	$ 0	$ 3,832

BENEFIT PLANS (Components of Ne

BENEFIT PLANS (Components of Net Periodic Benefit Cost, Amounts Recognized in Other Comprehensive Income, Weighted-Average Assumptions) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2015	Sep. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2015	Sep. 30, 2014
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member]
Components of Net Periodic Benefit Cost
Service cost	$ 1,213	$ 1,039	$ 3,638	$ 3,118
Interest cost	11,004	11,098	33,077	33,294
Expected return on plan assets	(13,683)	(12,701)	(41,051)	(38,102)
Settlement charge	2,031	0	2,031	0
Amortization of prior service cost (credit)	12	47	36	141
Amortization of actuarial loss	5,383	2,806	16,292	8,416
Net periodic pension/postretirement benefit cost	5,960	2,289	14,023	6,867
Changes in Plan Assets and Benefit Obligations Recognized in Other Comprehensive Income
Pretax reclassifications from AOCI included in net periodic postretirement/pension benefit cost	7,426	2,853	18,359	8,557
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member]
Components of Net Periodic Benefit Cost
Service cost	473	536	1,420	1,609
Interest cost	621	824	1,864	2,473
Curtailment gain	0	0	0	(3,832)
Amortization of prior service cost (credit)	(1,058)	(1,081)	(3,174)	(3,245)
Amortization of actuarial loss	9	57	28	170
Net periodic pension/postretirement benefit cost	45	336	138	(2,825)
Changes in Plan Assets and Benefit Obligations Recognized in Other Comprehensive Income
Pretax reclassifications from AOCI included in net periodic postretirement/pension benefit cost	$ (1,049)	$ (1,024)	$ (3,146)	$ (6,907)

OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (Acc

OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Sep. 30, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Sep. 30, 2014
AOCI
Cash Flow Hedges	$ (14,715)	$ (20,322)	$ (21,011)
Pension and Postretirement Benefit Plans	(132,131)	(141,392)	(70,504)
Total	$ (146,846)	$ (161,714)	$ (91,515)

OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (Cha

OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (Changes In AOCI Net Of Tax) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2015	Sep. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2015	Sep. 30, 2014
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]
AOCI, Net of Tax, Beginning Balance			$ (161,714)
Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications			0
Amounts reclassified from AOCI			14,868
Other comprehensive income	$ 4,165	$ 1,712	14,868	$ 8,116
AOCI, Net of Tax, Ending Balance	(146,846)	$ (91,515)	(146,846)	$ (91,515)
Reclassification Adjustment for Cash Flow Hedge Losses [Member]
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]
AOCI, Net of Tax, Beginning Balance			(20,322)
Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications			0
Amounts reclassified from AOCI			5,607
Other comprehensive income			5,607
AOCI, Net of Tax, Ending Balance	(14,715)		(14,715)
Amortization of Pension and Postretirement Plan Actuarial Loss and Prior Service Cost [Member]
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]
AOCI, Net of Tax, Beginning Balance			(141,392)
Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications			0
Amounts reclassified from AOCI			9,261
Other comprehensive income			9,261
AOCI, Net of Tax, Ending Balance	$ (132,131)		$ (132,131)

OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (Rec

OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (Reclassification Of Amounts From Other Comprehensive Income Loss To Earnings) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands		3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
		Sep. 30, 2015	Sep. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2015	Sep. 30, 2014
Reclassification Adjustment out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Line Items]
Interest expense		$ (37,800)	$ (40,891)	$ (183,931)	$ (201,531)
Selling, administrative and general expenses		71,390	66,074	207,350	199,808
(Benefit from) provision for income taxes		45,386	31,066	51,177	71,947
Net earnings		123,805	66,939	132,289	166,902
Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Member]
Reclassification Adjustment out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Line Items]
Net earnings		4,165	1,712	14,868	5,173
Reclassification Adjustment for Cash Flow Hedge Losses [Member] | Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Member]
Reclassification Adjustment out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Line Items]
Interest expense		467	989	9,282	6,892
(Benefit from) provision for income taxes		(185)	(391)	(3,675)	(2,725)
Net earnings	[1]	282	598	5,607	4,167
Amortization of Pension and Postretirement Plan Actuarial Loss and Prior Service Cost [Member] | Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Member]
Reclassification Adjustment out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Line Items]
Cost of revenues		5,242	1,465	12,417	1,324
Selling, administrative and general expenses		1,136	362	2,796	326
(Benefit from) provision for income taxes		(2,495)	(713)	(5,952)	(644)
Net earnings	[2]	$ 3,883	$ 1,114	$ 9,261	$ 1,006
[1]	Nine months ended September 30, 2015 and 2014 include the acceleration of a proportional amount of deferred interest rate derivatives (see Note 6) referable to debt purchases (see Note 7).
[2]	Nine months ended September 30, 2015 includes a one-time settlement loss resulting from a lump sum payment to a former employee (see Note 10). Nine months ended September 30, 2014 includes a one-time curtailment gain (see Note 10) resulting from the sale of our cement and concrete businesses in the Florida area (see Note 16).

EQUITY (Narrative) (Details)

EQUITY (Narrative) (Details) - USD ($)	9 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2014	Dec. 31, 2014	Sep. 30, 2015
EQUITY [Abstract]
Common stock, par value	$ 1	$ 1	$ 1
Common stock issued in connection with business acquisitions		715,004
Preferred stock issued			0
Shares of common stock issued to trustee under 401(k) savings and retirement plan	485,306	485,306
Net proceeds from issuance of common stock to the trustee under 401(k) savings and retirement plan	$ 30,620,000	$ 30,620,000
Number of shares held in treasury	0	0	0
Shares remaining under the current authorization repurchase program			3,411,416

EQUITY (Change In Total Equity)

EQUITY (Change In Total Equity) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2015	Sep. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2015	Sep. 30, 2014
EQUITY [Abstract]
Balance at December 31, 2014			$ 4,176,699
Net earnings	$ 123,805	$ 66,939	132,289	$ 166,902
Common stock issued, Share-based compensation plans			48,329
Share-based compensation expense			14,020
Excess tax benefits from share-based compensation			16,950
Cash dividends on common stock ($0.30 per share)			(39,878)
Other comprehensive income	4,165	1,712	14,868	8,116
Other			0
Balance at September 30, 2015	$ 4,363,277	$ 4,201,099	$ 4,363,277	$ 4,201,099

SEGMENT REPORTING (Narrative) (

SEGMENT REPORTING (Narrative) (Details)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2015segment
SEGMENT REPORTING [Abstract]
Number of operating segments	4
Number of reportable segments	4

SEGMENT REPORTING (Segment Fina

SEGMENT REPORTING (Segment Financial Disclosure) (Details) $ in Thousands		1 Months Ended	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
		Jan. 31, 2015property	Sep. 30, 2015USD ($)	Sep. 30, 2014USD ($)	Sep. 30, 2015USD ($)	Sep. 30, 2014USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2014USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2013USD ($)
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Total revenues			$ 1,038,460	$ 873,579	$ 2,564,896	$ 2,239,142
Gross profit			291,290	209,042	603,604	417,922
Depreciation, depletion, accretion and amortization			69,662	71,157	204,770	208,858
Cash items			168,681	91,868	168,681	91,868	$ 141,273	$ 193,738
Total assets			8,316,866	8,069,645	8,316,866	8,069,645	$ 8,041,097
Number of asphalt mix plants | property		13
Identifiable assets [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Total assets	[1]		8,042,100	7,888,800	8,042,100	7,888,800
Segment sales [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Total revenues			1,099,900	926,600	2,711,500	2,394,000
Aggregates [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Gross profit	[2]		250,900	188,000	525,800	388,100
Depreciation, depletion, accretion and amortization	[2]		57,700	58,500	170,300	169,200
Aggregates [Member] | Identifiable assets [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Total assets	[1],[2]		7,533,200	7,409,100	7,533,200	7,409,100
Aggregates [Member] | Segment sales [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Total revenues	[2]		830,800	688,900	2,067,700	1,752,600
Aggregates [Member] | Intersegment sales [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Total revenues			(61,400)	(53,000)	(146,600)	(145,700)
Asphalt Mix [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Gross profit	[3]		30,000	14,500	60,000	28,300
Depreciation, depletion, accretion and amortization	[3]		4,100	2,600	12,100	7,500
Asphalt Mix [Member] | Identifiable assets [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Total assets	[1],[3]		315,000	238,200	315,000	238,200
Asphalt Mix [Member] | Segment sales [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Total revenues	[3]		178,900	136,400	410,900	330,000
Concrete [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Gross profit	[3],[4]		9,600	5,500	15,300	(500)
Depreciation, depletion, accretion and amortization	[3],[4]		3,000	5,000	8,500	15,700
Concrete [Member] | Identifiable assets [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Total assets	[1],[3],[4]		188,300	235,600	188,300	235,600
Concrete [Member] | Segment sales [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Total revenues	[3],[4]		88,000	99,000	226,400	288,800
Calcium [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Gross profit	[5]		800	1,000	2,500	2,000
Depreciation, depletion, accretion and amortization	[5]		200	200	500	1,400
Calcium [Member] | Identifiable assets [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Total assets	[1],[5]		5,600	5,900	5,600	5,900
Calcium [Member] | Segment sales [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Total revenues	[5]		2,200	2,300	6,500	22,600
Calcium [Member] | Intersegment sales [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Total revenues			0	0	0	(9,200)
Other [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Depreciation, depletion, accretion and amortization			4,700	4,900	13,400	15,100
Corporate [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Total assets			$ 106,100	$ 88,900	$ 106,100	$ 88,900
[1]	Certain temporarily idled assets are included within a segment's Identifiable Assets but the associated DDA&A is shown within Other in the DDA&A section above as the related DDA&A is excluded from segment gross profit.
[2]	Includes crushed stone, sand and gravel, sand, other aggregates, as well as freight, delivery and transportation revenues, and other revenues related to services.
[3]	In January 2015, we exchanged our California ready-mixed concrete operations for 13 asphalt mix plants, primarily in Arizona (see Note 16).
[4]	Includes ready-mixed concrete. In March 2014, we sold our concrete business in the Florida area (see Note 16) which in addition to ready-mixed concrete, included concrete block, precast concrete, as well as building materials purchased for resale.
[5]	Includes cement and calcium products. In March 2014, we sold our cement business (see Note 16).

SUPPLEMENTAL CASH FLOW INFORM67

SUPPLEMENTAL CASH FLOW INFORMATION (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2015	Sep. 30, 2014
SUPPLEMENTAL CASH FLOW INFORMATION [Abstract]
Interest (exclusive of amount capitalized)	$ 136,123	$ 163,593
Income taxes	46,271	64,539
Accrued liabilities for purchases of property, plant & equipment	11,941	5,777
Liabilities assumed	2,645	24,881
Fair value of noncash assets and liabilities exchanged	20,000	4,914
Fair value of equity consideration	$ 0	$ 45,185

GOODWILL (Narrative) (Details)

GOODWILL (Narrative) (Details)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2015USD ($)segment	Sep. 30, 2014USD ($)
GOODWILL [Abstract]
Goodwill impairment charges	$ 0	$ 0
Number of reportable segments | segment	4

GOODWILL (Changes in Carrying A

GOODWILL (Changes in Carrying Amount of Goodwill by Reportable Segment) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Goodwill [Line Items]
Goodwill, gross carrying amount	$ 3,094,824	$ 3,094,824
Goodwill of acquired businesses	0
Goodwill of divested businesses	0
Aggregates [Member]
Goodwill [Line Items]
Goodwill, gross carrying amount	3,003,191	3,003,191
Goodwill of acquired businesses	0
Goodwill of divested businesses	0
Asphalt Mix [Member]
Goodwill [Line Items]
Goodwill, gross carrying amount	91,633	91,633
Goodwill of acquired businesses	0
Goodwill of divested businesses	0
Concrete [Member]
Goodwill [Line Items]
Goodwill, gross carrying amount	0	0
Goodwill of acquired businesses	0
Goodwill of divested businesses	0
Calcium [Member]
Goodwill [Line Items]
Goodwill, gross carrying amount	0	$ 0
Goodwill of acquired businesses	0
Goodwill of divested businesses	$ 0

ACQUISITIONS AND DIVESTITURES70

ACQUISITIONS AND DIVESTITURES (Narrative) (Details)	3 Months Ended			9 Months Ended		12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2015USD ($)	Sep. 30, 2014USD ($)	Mar. 31, 2014USD ($)	Sep. 30, 2015USD ($)property	Sep. 30, 2014USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2014USD ($)itempropertyshares
Significant Acquisitions and Disposals [Line Items]
Proceeds from sale of property, plant & equipment				$ 4,464,000	$ 21,320,000
Total consideration				40,801,000		$ 331,836,000
Payment for acquisition of businesses				20,801,000	268,604,000	284,237,000
Exchanges of real property and businesses						2,414,000
Amortizable intangible assets recognized				$ 16,176,000
Intangible assets amortization period, tax purposes				15 years
Gain on sale of properties and businesses	$ 799,000	$ 1,002,000		$ 7,423,000	238,527,000
Supply agreement period				20 years
Purchases of property, plant & equipment				$ 214,815,000	$ 169,220,000
Consideration transferred, common stock						$ 45,185,000
Common stock issued in connection with business acquisitions | shares						715,004
Dallas/Fort Worth [Member]
Significant Acquisitions and Disposals [Line Items]
Number of distribution yard acquired | property						2
Aggregates [Member]
Significant Acquisitions and Disposals [Line Items]
Proceeds from sale of property, plant & equipment			$ 5,820,000
Gain on sale of properties and businesses			5,790,000
Aggregates [Member] | ARIZONA AND NEW MEXICO [Member]
Significant Acquisitions and Disposals [Line Items]
Number of facilities acquired | property				3		5
Concrete [Member] | ARIZONA AND NEW MEXICO [Member]
Significant Acquisitions and Disposals [Line Items]
Number of facilities acquired | property				7
Asphalt Mix [Member] | ARIZONA [Member]
Significant Acquisitions and Disposals [Line Items]
Number of facilities acquired | property				13
Exchanges of real property and businesses				$ 20,000,000
Cement And Concrete [Member]
Significant Acquisitions and Disposals [Line Items]
Gain on sale of properties and businesses			227,910,000
Total consideration			721,359,000
Aggregates and Concrete [Member] | ARIZONA AND NEW MEXICO [Member]
Significant Acquisitions and Disposals [Line Items]
Payment for acquisition of businesses				20,801,000
Straight Line Method [Member] | Asphalt Mix [Member] | ARIZONA [Member]
Significant Acquisitions and Disposals [Line Items]
Amortizable intangible assets recognized				$ 7,168,000
Estimated weighted-average amortization period of intangible assets				20 years
Unit Of Production Method [Member] | Aggregates and Concrete [Member] | ARIZONA AND NEW MEXICO [Member]
Significant Acquisitions and Disposals [Line Items]
Amortizable intangible assets recognized				$ 9,008,000
Estimated weighted-average amortization period of intangible assets				50 years
Previously mined and subsequently reclaimed tract of land [Member] | Aggregates [Member]
Significant Acquisitions and Disposals [Line Items]
Proceeds from sale of property, plant & equipment			10,727,000
Gain on sale of properties and businesses			$ 168,000
California ready-mixed concrete operations [Member] | CALIFORNIA [Member]
Significant Acquisitions and Disposals [Line Items]
Gain on sale of properties and businesses				$ 5,886,000
Number of facilities divested | property				12
Asphalt plants and Aggregates facilities [Member] | Asphalt And Aggregates [Member] | CALIFORNIA [Member]
Significant Acquisitions and Disposals [Line Items]
Number of facilities acquired | property						2
Asphalt plants and Aggregates facilities [Member] | Aggregates [Member] | CALIFORNIA [Member]
Significant Acquisitions and Disposals [Line Items]
Number of facilities acquired | property						4
Asphalt plants and Aggregates facilities [Member] | Aggregates [Member] | DELAWARE [Member]
Significant Acquisitions and Disposals [Line Items]
Number of facilities acquired | property						2
Rail-connected aggregates operation [Member] | Dallas/Fort Worth [Member]
Significant Acquisitions and Disposals [Line Items]
Number of facilities acquired | item						1
Permitted aggregates quarry [Member] | Alabama [Member]
Significant Acquisitions and Disposals [Line Items]
Number of facilities acquired | item						1

ACQUISITIONS AND DIVESTITURES71

ACQUISITIONS AND DIVESTITURES (Classification Of Assets And Liabilities Held For Sale) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Sep. 30, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Sep. 30, 2014
ACQUISITIONS AND DIVESTITURES [Abstract]
Current assets	$ 0	$ 1,773	$ 0
Property, plant & equipment, net	0	12,764	0
Other intangible assets, net	0	647	0
Total assets held for sale	0	15,184	0
Asset retirement obligations	0	520	0
Total liabilities of assets held for sale	$ 0	$ 520	$ 0

NEW ACCOUNTING STANDARDS (Detai

NEW ACCOUNTING STANDARDS (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	9 Months Ended		12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2015	Sep. 30, 2014	Dec. 31, 2014
NEW ACCOUNTING STANDARDS [Abstract]
Debt Issuance Cost		$ 21,893	$ 20,805
LIFO method used for percentage of inventory	70.00%