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Wellsville residents’ opinions divided on proposed truck stop

April 27th, 2012 Posted in Opinion

By Jimena Herrero

WELLSVILLE — Nearly a year after Steve Kyriopoulos first filed an application to build his All-American Auto Plaza, the topic continues to divide Wellsville residents. The Planning Commission held a public hearing Wednesday night to allow public input and consider approval for Kyriopoulos’ application.

“We want everyone to have a chance to be heard,” said Commission Chairman Russell Glenn. “We have not made any decision yet and we’re not leaning one way or another.”

If approved, the southeast corner of U.S. Highway 89-91 and 400 North in Wellsville would be the home to a gas station, motel and truck stop.

Residents in the area are concerned that the proposed truck stop will bring unwanted traffic, noise, pollution and crime to the area. Many are also concerned that it will decrease the value of homes and change the rural feel of Wellsville.

“We have a beautiful community here in Wellsville,” resident Kelly Parkinson said. “There’s a reason we all love to live here.”

Richard Boyce, part-owner of the proposed truck stop, believes that despite the current concerns of residents, the business would benefit the community in the long-run.

“There will be a lot of jobs created,” Boyce said. “It won’t be nearly as devastating as people think.”

Many residents support Boyce and believe that the expansion of Wellsville is inevitable, and that the truck stop could create jobs and revenue for the community.

“It’s an asset. Everyone who lives here has to pass by our town to exit the valley,” resident Dave Nielsen said.

During Wednesday’s hearing, many of the residents who oppose the project not only voiced their concern, but also presented research and national studies related to the topic.

“This project will have profound and far reaching consequences,” resident Robert Bolton said. “We need to protect the character of the city.”

Kyriopoulos has been asked to provide additional information and data in order for the Planning Commission to continue discussion on the topic.

“We are going to have to go through several workshop sessions before we make a decision,” Commissioner Loyal Green said.

“This isn’t something we take lightly,” Commissioner John Spence said. “We want to make the right decision for the community.”

NW

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