New covenience store approved for North Botetourt at Greyledge Road

Northern Buchanan will receive a new convenience store at the intersection of Frontage Road and Greyledge Road, thanks to approval from the Board of Supervisors at the July 26, 2022 meeting.

Muhammad Tahir asked for a Special Exception Permit (SEP) to building a convenience store on 3 acres of a 6-acre parcel that is already zoned Business (B-1). The Supervisors approved the construction, which would mean tearing down an 1800s home and other buildings on the parcel, but placed 13 conditions on the venture.

The conditions included signage, no clearing of growth in a flood plain on the property, business hours, and limited parking, including no overnight parking.

The convenience store owner told the Supervisors that he plans to serve the community at large as well as travelers from Interstate 81. He would carry items such as bread and milk, hot food, and gas. He does not plan to have fuel for tractor trailers at this location. One electric vehicle charging station is planned.

The 2,000 square foot building would also have a small fast food restaurant.

The Planning Commission received more than 30 letters objecting to the project, but no one spoke at the public hearing at the Supervisors’ meeting.

Buchanan District Supervisor Amy White made the motion to approve the project, noting that, “Change is inevitable for progress.”

                                                                           — Anita Firebaugh, Special to the Botetourt Bee