ATLANTIC BEACH, Fla. — Neighbors in a local community are joining together to keep a gas station out of their area.
Action News Jax obtained renderings for a proposed Gate gas station to be built near the intersection of Atlantic Boulevard and Third Street.
"We support gate," neighbor Andy Pitler said.
On Tuesday night, dozens of people showed up to protest by holding signs, joining the thousands of protesters who have signed an online petition.
They don’t want the station in Atlantic Beach even though the area is zoned for the business.
Neighbors are concerned about possible traffic congestion and safety. The site is across the street from the Kmart on Atlantic Boulevard and close to a restaurant.
“There is a BP gas station not even a mile away from where they want to build,” said Scott Staggers.
“It just doesn't fit,” said Glenn Shuck.
While a petition is circulating and opponents are talking on social media, Gate officials say they already own this land, which is zoned for a gas station.
"I don't really have a strong feeling for it one way or another," neighbor Bruce Cleary said.
Neighbors said their lawyers appealed the construction and are meeting with city leaders Thursday to discuss the project’s future. A 6,400-square-foot gas station is planned.
“We’re trying to stop a mega-station,” Shuck said.
Shuck lives across the street from the vacant strip mall where the gas station would go, off busy Atlantic Boulevard.
“We sure as heck would (rather) stare at that than a gas station,” Shuck said.
"Where they are looking to put the gas station is kind of an eyesore right now," Pitler said.
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Meanwhile, a Gate spokesperson sent a statement:
“More than two years ago, Gate Petroleum purchased the land and dilapidated shopping center at 535 Atlantic Boulevard after confirming with the City of Atlantic Beach that the property was zoned to allow the operation of a service station and retail store.
“Since that time, we have designed a store consistent with the existing zoning, followed established permitting processes, been transparent about our plans, responded to questions and concerns and even went so far as to voluntarily hold an open house, sending invitations to 15,120 Atlantic and Neptune Beach residents. Additionally, to ensure our store fits into the unique character and charm of the community, we hired an Atlantic Beach architect to design the store.
“While we are disappointed that a group of residents have voiced opposition to the permit issued by the City of Atlantic Beach, we believe, that when presented with facts, that the majority of the community will welcome our well-maintained and operated store into the area. We look forward to presenting facts and information regarding the permit issued by the City of Atlantic Beach for our store at the hearing on Thursday.”
City leaders said they will decide on Thursday what the next step is for the project and if it will move forward.