The Metropolitan Development Commission has greenlit a contentious project for a new Wawa convenience store and gas station on Indianapolis' east side in what has been described as a divisive decision grappling with urban development, transit, and community needs. According to FOX59, the store's proposed site will be at the 7100 block of East Washington Street, a location that has historically faced opposition from those concerned with an increase in vehicle traffic and a departure from the city's commitment to transit-oriented development.
On Wednesday, the commission approved the $8 million development with a 6-2 majority, overturning an earlier rejection by a lower-level official. The revised proposal includes adapts to the city's ordinances with changes such as the reduction of parking spaces and increased greenspace. Additionally, Wawa incorporated a pedestrian entrance and outdoor seating to accommodate foot traffic, as reported by Mirror Indy. However, it's worth noting that this site lies along the future IndyGo Blue Line route, slated for launch in 2028, and falls within a transit-oriented development overlay, which aims to promote walkable and bus-friendly areas.
Concerns had been raised over the project's potential to disrupt the area's walkability and the density of gas stations already present. "There already are at least seven other gas stations within a mile radius of the property," Taylor Firestine, director of Healthy Communities, told FOX59. Moreover, an analysis cited by proponents and critics alike found nearly 30 gas stations within a two-mile radius, highlighting the saturation of such services in the vicinity, as per information obtained from IndyStar.
The approval did not come without its revisions and compromises. Although Wawa's original proposal was criticized for exceeding the limits on gas pumps under the transit ordinance, it was later clarified that the restriction applies to pump islands, not individual pumps. Wawa's plan includes six pump islands with 12 hoses, which adheres to the ordinance. Despite city officials requiring a 40% transparency for store windows to merge public and private spaces effectively, Wawa was granted an exception on the window transparency rule. This aspect was the only exception to the zoning ordinance that was not entirely resolved, as aforementioned by Mirror Indy.
Economic and community upliftment remain at the heart of this debate. According to Joe Calderone, an attorney for the developer, Wawa is anticipated to complement the Blue Line by providing connectivity and services, including a coveted spot for a cup of coffee or breakfast for bus riders. As FOX59 reported, Roy Switzer, owner of Get Fit Athletic Club located nearby, expressed support, indicating that bus riders and motorists alike will benefit from the convenience store. Proponents argue that the Wawa represents a significant investment in an underutilized lot, potentially revitalizing the area and attracting further development. The east side Wawa is expected to open its doors in early 2027, joining the emergent roster of stores across Indiana, as detailed by IndyStar.
