Residents rally against proposed Wawa gas station citing safety and traffic concerns in Martin County

Concerns over a proposed Wawa gas station dominated the Martin County Board of Commissioners meeting on December 10, 2024, as residents voiced their fears about safety, traffic, and the potential impact on local businesses.

Local parents raised alarms about the safety of students who wait for buses along Locks Road, where the new gas station is planned. One concerned parent passionately urged the board to "please protect our children," highlighting the risks posed by increased traffic and visibility to potential predators.

Business owner Fazlullah Ahmed expressed his worries that the Wawa would threaten his livelihood, claiming that 75% of his customers come from Locks Road. He criticized the decision to allow another gas station in an area already saturated with similar businesses, arguing that it would harm local commerce.

Roberta Moss, president of the Savannah Estates Property Owners Association, presented a petition signed by over 1,000 residents opposing the Wawa. She cited concerns about increased crime, litter, and traffic congestion, stating, "Who's gonna wanna buy my house when I retire and Wawa's right outside the door?"

Commissioners discussed the legal implications of the project, noting that Florida law limits their ability to deny developments based on traffic concerns if they meet existing standards. Despite their sympathies for the residents, the board acknowledged that the Wawa project complied with all necessary regulations, making it difficult to reject.

The meeting concluded with a commitment from the board to explore potential improvements to traffic flow, including the possibility of adding a left turn lane to mitigate congestion. However, the future of the Wawa remains uncertain as the community continues to rally against the development.