Gallatin City Council discusses Wawa development amid flooding concerns

Concerns over commercial development and flooding dominated the recent Gallatin City Council meeting, as officials discussed a preliminary master development plan for a new Wawa store at Longolo Park. The proposal, which covers a 3.53-acre site, aims to enhance commercial offerings in the area, but council members expressed significant apprehensions regarding access and potential flooding issues.

Vice Mayor Hayes initiated the discussion, emphasizing the need for more commercial development while voicing concerns about the access road to the proposed site. "The access is not optimal," he stated, highlighting the challenges posed by the area's road layout. The council acknowledged that the road had previously undergone changes, complicating access for the new development.

Councilman Schwab raised alarms about the potential flooding risks associated with the project. He noted that the proposed entrance could exacerbate traffic issues and create dangerous conditions for drivers. "That entry is so dangerous. It's unbelievable," he remarked, urging caution before moving forward with the approval. Schwab also pointed out that the development's proximity to the flood zone could impact water flow, raising concerns about the safety of nearby properties.

Despite these worries, the council voted to approve the first reading of the ordinance, with a 5-0 vote and one abstention. The decision allows the project to proceed to the next stage, although further discussions and assessments regarding flooding and engineering plans are expected.

As the city moves forward with the Wawa development, officials will need to address the community's concerns about safety and environmental impact, ensuring that the benefits of commercial growth do not come at the expense of public safety.