ROYAL OAK, Mich. – Royal Oak gave the green light for Sheetz to open a location at Coolidge and 14 Mile Road.
The 6-1 vote happened at Royal Oak’s Planning Commission meeting Tuesday evening.
The decision came after dozens of community members commented publicly expressing concerns about the gas station chain moving into town.
Top concerns included traffic, safety surrounding a 24/7 business and competition to local businesses.
Neighboring cities recently rejected Sheetz, including Livonia and Madison Heights.
On the contrary, other places like Highland Township approved Sheetz.
Sheetz, a gas station and restaurant chain, plans to open more than 50 Michigan locations over the next five years.
Sheetz opened its first Michigan gas station in Romulus last summer.
Ahead of Tuesday’s meeting, a spokesperson for Sheetz shared the following statement.
“We look forward to tonight’s Royal Oak Planning Commission hearing to showcase the benefits we’ll bring to this area. We’re also eager to clarify any misconceptions shared by opposing convenience store organizations at the hearing. We know our supporters outnumber the vocal opposition and look forward to sharing our vision for Royal Oak.”
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“We are grateful to the Royal Oak Planning Commission for their decisive approval of the landowner’s request to rezone the site at 3200 West 14 Mile Road. This decision underscores the Commission’s dedication to driving growth, attracting investment and creating good job opportunities that will benefit the entire community.
With 13 exciting projects already approved across the Detroit region, Sheetz is energized by the overwhelming support we continue to receive in the area.
As we continue our collaboration with Royal Oak officials, we are excited to bring innovative convenience offerings to this community—offerings that meet the needs and desires of local residents. We are proud to be a part of this transformative movement and are fully dedicated to investing in the future of these neighborhoods.”
Nick Ruffner, Public Affairs Manager at Sheetz