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New Casey’s gets closer
by Rick DeClue · News · February 26, 2015


Casey’s General Stores recently submitted its construction application and plans to the Iowa Department of Transportation, the city council heard last week, and could get the go-ahead to build in 30 to 45 days.


And it appears the current Casey’s, opened in July 1982, will remain open so long as it remains profitable.

City Engineer Dave Schechinger reported on Feb. 17 that the project continues to move forward, and City Administrator Matt Muckler said things are on track for Casey’s to move ahead in mid-March to early April.

Casey’s submitted its paperwork for the $2.5 million gas station and convenience store to IDOT after Schechinger worked with Casey’s engineers to incorporate IDOT’s suggestions for road improvements at the intersection of South Downey Street and Tidewater Drive.

IDOT must approve the project due to the site’s proximity to the Interstate 80 ramps and bridge.

“IDOT is basically in agreement with the details,” Schechinger said.

City Administrator Matt Muckler said the city has tentative agreements with property owners who may be affected by the road upgrades.

Schechinger and Mayor Mark Worrell both said Casey’s wants to open on the 3.15-acre lot as soon as possible. They also noted the quickness in the company’s construction process once approvals are obtained. A message left with Casey’s corporate office was not returned as of press time.

Casey’s will be responsible for both the construction of their new store and the intersection work.

This includes approximately $400,000 in city costs that Casey’s will initially cover. West Branch will then reimburse its share of the costs using Tax Increment Financing.

“Having one party responsible for all of the construction will help in staging the road improvements,” Schechinger said. Some traffic will be diverted during the road construction.

Muckler said the city and Casey’s have drafted a preliminary development agreement and prepared cost estimates. West Branch Planning and Zoning Commission previously approved the site plan.

Council Member Tim Shields asked whether the existing Main Street Casey’s will continue operating after the new store is completed.

“My son asked me,” explained Shields. “He really wants it to stay open.”

Worrell said he has fielded similar questions from a number of residents. Casey’s intends to keep the existing store as long as it remains profitable, he said.

The mayor has often pointed out the potential challenges for some residents or school children who would have to make their way across the interstate if the existing store closed, though also noting that the owners of Jack and Jill grocery might see some upside.

If it is not feasible to keep the exisiting Casey’s store open, Worrell said he intends to have language in the development agreement that requires Casey’s to find a new occupant or raze the existing store.

“We’ve told them we don’t want a vacant building on Main Street,” he said.

The mayor added he has already had a couple of businesses approach him about the site, if it becomes available.

Council member Mary Beth Stevenson confirmed with Muckler that Casey’s would be responsible for any environmental issues if they decide to close the existing store.

The council plans a public hearing on the project to be scheduled upon IDOT approval.

Casey’s announced the plan in January 2013 and hoped to begin construction that spring, but IDOT requirements were cited for why the project was delayed.

The new store will have 4,200 square feet, about twice as much as the current location, with a wider coffee selection, sit-down area, more coolers and a beer vault. The new location will also bake fresh bread and prepare sub sandwiches to order, as well as pizzas.