The Mentor Planning Commission unanimously approved final site plans for a new Sheetz gas station on Heisley Road and a five-lot residential subdivision on South Cedarwood Road during their September 4 meeting.
Development
Sheetz Gas Station Gets Final Approval
The commission approved final site plans for the 24/7 Sheetz convenience store and gas station at 6010 Heisley Road after addressing concerns about traffic flow and delivery schedules. The facility will feature a drive-through service using what Sheetz calls an “isolated canoe” design.
Ellen Cy, project permit manager for Sheetz, told commissioners the drive-through sees only five cars during peak lunch hours, significantly less than traditional fast-food restaurants. The company operates 76 drive-through locations in Ohio using similar designs.
Resident Jake Balanic from Hendricks Road raised concerns about delivery times, requesting restrictions during overnight hours due to the city’s noise ordinance. The commission added compliance with the noise ordinance as a condition of approval.
Balanic also questioned traffic light timing at the nearby Heisley and Hendricks intersection, citing potential backups when vehicles exit the station. City administration indicated the traffic study did not warrant signal timing changes but said they could evaluate the issue if problems develop.
The project includes 45 parking spaces, exceeding the city’s maximum of 31 but necessary for employee parking and shift changes. The building features brick construction with stone base and outdoor seating areas protected by bollards.
Five-Home Development Approved
Scott Lowe received preliminary approval for a subdivision creating five residential lots at 6494 South Cedarwood Road. The project extends South Cedarwood Road 185 feet and includes a cul-de-sac due to wetland constraints that prevented connecting to Antoinette Road.
City Planning Director Kathy noted the property has been under review since 1980, with previous proposals for eight or nine lots unsuccessful due to site constraints. Wetland studies determined the current five-lot configuration as the most viable option.
The commission waived sidewalk requirements citing topographic challenges and wetlands. Geoffrey Varga questioned why the development couldn’t connect to the existing Shauny Trail right-of-way, but officials explained it remains an undeveloped paper street.
The project addresses the city’s housing shortage identified in a 2024 housing study and provides emergency vehicle turnaround capabilities where none currently exist.
Public Safety
Traffic Safety Measures Implemented
Both approved projects include traffic safety enhancements. The Sheetz location will feature stop bars, directional signage, and a pork chop median meeting Ohio Department of Transportation standards to control vehicle movements.
The residential development eliminates a dead-end road situation that forced drivers to use private driveways to turn around, creating safety hazards for emergency responders.
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