Costco Proposes New Parking Lot at 3301 West Central Avenue After Rite Aid Demolition

The Toledo City Plan Commission convened on August 14, 2025, to discuss several key developments that promise to impact local residents significantly. Among the most notable topics was the approval of a new parking lot for Costco Wholesale, which aims to enhance customer access amid rising membership visits.

The proposed parking lot, set to replace an existing Rite Aid at 3301 West Central Avenue, will feature 79 parking stalls primarily designated for Costco customers and employees. This expansion is a direct response to the increased foot traffic at the store, reflecting Costco's growing popularity in the community. The project will involve acquiring approximately one acre from an adjacent shopping center to facilitate the new lot.

During the meeting, the commission reviewed the site plan, which met all necessary standards outlined in the Toledo Municipal Code. The plan was recommended for approval based on three main criteria: safe vehicular access, efficient traffic circulation, and pedestrian safety. However, the proposal included 27 conditions that must be adhered to, ensuring that the development aligns with community safety and accessibility standards.

One point of contention arose regarding a proposed raised crosswalk intended to enhance pedestrian safety at a busy intersection near the site. The developers expressed concerns about the feasibility of this feature, citing potential complications with traffic flow and snow removal, as the crosswalk would require cooperation from an off-site property owner. Instead, they proposed using more visible ladder-style crosswalks and additional signage to alert drivers to pedestrian crossings, particularly for employees.

The commission unanimously approved the Costco parking lot project, which will now move forward to the city council for final consideration on September 17. This development is expected to improve access for Costco shoppers and enhance the overall shopping experience in the area.

In addition to the Costco project, the meeting included discussions on other developments, but the parking lot proposal stood out as a significant step towards accommodating the growing needs of Toledo's residents. As the city continues to evolve, these developments reflect a commitment to enhancing community infrastructure and accessibility.