Planning Commission approves PC 2428, clearing way for Wawa store with conditions and INDOT access review

The Franklin City Planning Commission unanimously approved the primary plat for PC 2428, known as the Wawa Subdivision, at its Jan. 21 meeting, moving forward a two‑lot commercial subdivision on roughly 10.4 acres at the northeast corner of Earlywood Drive and US 31 (Morton Street).

Joanna, a member of planning staff presenting the recommendation, told the commission the proposal includes three proposed access points — a write‑in‑only entrance on US 31 that requires INDOT review, and one entrance each on Sloan Drive and Earlywood Drive. Staff recommended approval of the primary plat with nine conditions, including dedication of half of Earlywood Drive right‑of‑way (35 feet), no access easements along the frontages except the approved entrances, provision of INDOT approval for the US 31 entrance, a written maintenance agreement for access easements, a 20‑foot perimeter utility easement, and minimum front yard setbacks (50 feet along US 31, 20 feet along Sloane Drive). Joanna said the final entrance locations will be approved through the secondary plat and construction plan review process.

Paul Hansen of CESO, representing the petitioner, described Lot 1 as intended for a Wawa convenience store. He said the site plan anticipates a convenience store, eight fueling pumps, a mobile ordering "fly‑thru" pickup window (no menu board) and future electric vehicle charging near the east side of the parcel. Hansen said the team "just got preliminary INDOT approval right before this meeting" to allow the US 31 access and agreed to the staff conditions.

Pat Moon, representing Wawa, clarified ownership practices: while Wawa commonly leases many sites, he said this location was purchased because it met site and pricing needs. He described a shared stormwater basin in the common area that will serve both lots and confirmed that maintenance of internal drives will be the subdivision's responsibility.

Commissioner Jim Martin moved to approve PC 2428 with the staff recommendations; Bill Carson seconded. The commission approved the primary plat by voice vote, with the motion passing unanimously.

Next steps: the petitioner must provide INDOT approval for the US 31 entrance, finalize required legal and maintenance agreements, and return for secondary‑plat and construction plan review for final entrance locations and site engineering before building permits are issued.