Westwood One Step Closer to Having Electric Vehicle Charging Stations

Portion of an image by Oregon Department of Transportation on Flickr

An application by Global Montello Group Corp. (Global Montello) to redevelop and merge 710 and 722 High Street in Westwood, cleared one hurdle on July 21, 2021 when it received approval for special permits by Westwood’s Zoning Board of Appeals. The application includes plans to install six electric vehicle charging stations and expand the existing convenience store. 

Currently, there is a Mobil Gas Station with convenience store at 710 High Street.  The lot at 722 High Street is the location of Westwood Gulf Station.

During the public hearing, the only public comment came from Ms. Dana Zahka, the owner of Westwood Eyecare.  Westwood Eyecare is located on the lot next to Westwood Gulf Station. 

Ms. Zahka noted that Starbucks customers regularly park on her property. She wondered if the parking spaces added by the redevelopment would be sufficient, or if customers of the expanded On the Run convenience store would also use her property for parking.

The applicant responded that the proposed parking complies with zoning by-laws and that there should not be any spillover parking.

After opportunity for public comment, the ZBA granted to Global Montello special permits for Motor Vehicle Light Service and for Storage of Hazardous Materials within a Water Resource Protection Overlay District.

According to Ms. Nora Loughnane, Westwood’s Director of Community & Economic Development, the next hurdle for Global Montello will be to obtain a Stormwater Management Approval from the Conservation Commission. 

After that, the proposed work could potentially begin this fall, as long as there are no significant delays in the supply chain for building materials.

The plan for redevelopment and merger includes adding about 1,718 square feet of retail space to the On the Run convenience store, one fuel dispenser, and concrete and pavement at 710 High Street.  At 722 High Street, the plans include closing the northernmost driveway with a sidewalk and adding six electric vehicle charging stations.  There would also be added parking and associated equipment. Underground infrastructure would be updated and replaced. Landscaping would also be installed.

Thanks to Westwood’s Director of Community & Economic Development, Ms. Nora Loughnane, for contributing information for this article.

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