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Bluffton planning commission conditionally approves Seagrass Station gas station after residents raise safety, traffic and HOA concerns
Summary
After persistent public objections about tanker-truck routing, nearby playgrounds and lack of updated traffic analysis, the Town of Bluffton Planning Commission conditionally approved the Seagrass Station 6,000 sq. ft. convenience store and fueling station, requiring an updated TIA, truck-circulation plan, reduced pumps and a financial commitment for a traffic signal if warranted.
The Town of Bluffton Planning Commission voted to conditionally approve a preliminary development plan for a 6,000-square-foot convenience store and fueling station at the intersection of SC-170 and Seagrass Station Road, despite multiple neighbors urging denial over traffic and safety concerns.
Residents told the commission that Seagrass Station Road and the proposed connector, Amanda Road, cannot safely accommodate regular tanker deliveries. "A large truck such as a tanker truck cannot safely and legally make a right hand turn entering into the property," resident Bill McCollum said during public comment, citing tight turning radii and narrow neighborhood streets. Neighbor Britney Hendrickson warned the commission the intersection lies on a curve with a 45 mph speed limit and described SC-170 as a designated hurricane evacuation route: "This location lacks the infrastructure needed to safely support a gas station," she said.
The applicant and their consultants responded that several changes will be made before final approval. "We can provide additional plantings and a truck-circulation exhibit and we are coordinating with SCDOT on the Amanda Road connection," said Josh Tiller of JK Tiller Associates. Civil engineer Robert Moore added the connection to the state right-of-way and the proposed driveway will require a full South Carolina DOT permit and a signal‑warrant projection as part of a standard traffic impact analysis (TIA).
Town staff recommended approval with conditions designed to address those concerns. The commission’s motion — approved in voice vote — requires: 1) an updated landscape plan and at least a 6-foot screening fence or wall adjacent to residential areas; 2) a revised site plan showing no more than eight fuel pumps (the application showed 10); 3) a truck circulation exhibit demonstrating safe delivery routes for fuel trucks; and 4) an updated TIA and signal warrant analysis plus a developer financial commitment or surety to install and maintain a signal if the warrant study concludes one is required.
Commission members and staff stressed follow-up oversight. One commissioner recommended a signed commitment from the police chief and fire marshal on stacking and safety plans prior to final approval. Town staff told the commission the master property owners association’s approval letter will also be required before the final development plan is accepted.
The motion passed unanimously. The required traffic study and DOT permitting remain outstanding steps before any final development approval or construction.
