Gaithersburg Wawa recommended for approval by planning staff

City of Gaithersburg planners are recommending the Planning Commission approve the Wawa gas station and convenience store proposed for 405 South Frederick Avenue, across from Gaithersburg High School. Planner I Jasmine Forbes found that the proposed use is compatible with the location and surroundings. There is sufficient infrastructure to handle both the expected automobile and pedestrian traffic, especially since the applicant has reached an agreement for use of an access easement across the Holbrook Shopping Center property next door, she determined.

A noise study found that existing traffic noise from MD 355, and "insect noise" from the rear of the property are the main sources of noise at the site today, and that existing city noise ordinances will restrict any additional noise from cars, such as illegal modified exhaust or loud music.

One Deer Park resident had expressed concern that it would be very difficult for neighborhood traffic to access 355 once the Wawa opens. The staff report suggests residents reroute to other signalized intersections north and south of the Wawa. A new "pork chop" median in front of the Wawa will provide adequate refuge for pedestrians who can't make it across on one light, Forbes wrote.

The report notes that the six gas pumps will be 239 feet from the closest home behind the site. They will be 1,353 feet from the Gaithersburg High School tennis court, 1,369 feet from the football field and 1,830 feet from the baseball field. Wawa says it will have double-walled fuel tanks below the site, with an automatic alert system that will report any leaks to Wawa corporate headquarters immediately. A Stage 1 Vapor Recovery System will limit the release of fuel vapors from gas station operations.

Staff noted that the Wawa store structure is actually smaller than the existing antiques shop on the site, which will be demolished. Light fixtures around the property will be shielded LEDs to prevent light pollution.

A final decision on the Wawa store is expected from the Mayor & Council on October 7. If approved, the store is expected to open in November or December 2020.