The Winter Springs Planning and Zoning Board convened on August 7, 2025, to discuss a proposed Wawa convenience store at the intersection of State Road 434 and Tuscawilla. The meeting highlighted significant concerns regarding the store's design and its potential impact on local traffic.

The proposed site, measuring 1.22 acres, is notably smaller than typical Wawa locations, which usually require around 2 acres. The applicant explained that due to space constraints, the store would feature a unique design with a single public entrance and a smaller fuel canopy than usual, accommodating fewer fueling positions. This adaptation aims to fit the store within the limited area while still offering essential services.

Board member Kipper Semat raised critical points about the project's alignment with the town center code, emphasizing the importance of maintaining building setbacks and pedestrian accessibility at this prominent intersection. Semat expressed concerns about the absence of an approved traffic study, noting that convenience stores typically generate high traffic volumes. He suggested that the proposal be tabled until a thorough traffic analysis could be conducted and reviewed.

In response, the applicant acknowledged that while the traffic study had not yet been approved, they had addressed the comments from reviewing consultants. They expressed hope that the study would be finalized in time for the city commission's review.

The discussion underscored the board's commitment to ensuring that new developments adhere to local codes and contribute positively to the community's character. The meeting concluded without a definitive decision, as further evaluation of the traffic study and design adjustments may be necessary before moving forward with the proposal.