Proposed Sheetz in Banksville faces scrutiny over gas station rules

Is Sheetz extra of a gas station or comfort retailer?

The reply may resolve whether or not the Altoona-based chain expands into Pittsburgh metropolis limits.

Sheetz is proposing to demolish a vacant Rite Aid in Pittsburgh’s Banksville neighborhood and substitute it with a roughly 5,000-square-foot comfort retailer and 5 multi-pump gasoline dispensers. To achieve this, it is going to want a variance on a bit of metropolis zoning code that prohibits gas stations inside 150 ft of a residential district.

The property alongside Banksville Road is simply 30 ft from the closest properties, a priority repeatedly raised by Pittsburgh Zoning Board of Adjustment Chair Alice Mitinger throughout a Thursday listening to on the proposal.

Ryan Wotus, the legal professional representing Sheetz, argued made-to-order meals (MTOs) and different retail gadgets are the core of the chain’s enterprise, not gas. He additionally famous the zoning code restricts gas stations’ proximity to residential areas solely once they’re a major use of a property.

“Really what the primary operation of this is is a convenience store,” Wotus stated. “It’s a retail sales operation.”

A few Banksville residents raised issues in regards to the deliberate 24/7 operation. Gene Henry, who lives near the previous Rite Aid, stated the 150-foot restriction ought to apply right here, defending residents from the car emissions and visitors generated by gas stations.

“I don’t have a problem with a convenience store being there by itself, but not a gas station,” Henry stated.

Lori Marabello, an govt assistant for Pittsburgh Councilwoman Kim Salintero, D-Banksville, testified on behalf of her boss in help of the mission.

Sheetz may have the prospect to submit further info to the board.

The firm didn’t instantly return a request searching for remark.