From Burgers to Gas Pumps: Wawa Eyes Transformation of Eyesore into Community Upgrade in Moraine
MORAINE OH , A long-abandoned Frisch’s restaurant and an aging apartment complex may soon make way for a modern Wawa gas station, as developers seek to breathe new life into a well-traveled corner of South Dixie Drive.
The proposal, which will go before the Montgomery County Planning and Zoning Commission Tuesday night, could significantly reshape the area if approved. The site, currently home to the vacant Frisch’s and the adjacent Leigh Place Apartments, has become a source of frustration for nearby residents.
Charletta Schultz, a tenant of the apartment complex, says the crumbling state of the former restaurant has become more than just an eyesore.
“It’s not a nice place to live next to,” Schultz told News Center 7’s Malik Patterson. “They marked. They drilled. So, we kind of had some idea something was going on.”
Behind the planned transformation is Jeffery Anderson Real Estate, a partner of Wawa gas stations. The firm recently acquired both the Frisch’s property and the apartment complex next door, signaling major changes on the horizon. Wawa, known for its all-in-one convenience store model and made-to-order food, could bring fresh energy and traffic to this section of Moraine.
George Brand, the current owner of the apartment complex, appears to be working closely with Anderson. In a letter addressed to tenants, Brand promised relocation support, offering units in his other two properties as they become available.
“It is my intent to offer tenants at 2705 Leigh Place Apartments other apartments on my other two properties as they become available,” Brand wrote. “I would love to retain all my tenants.”
Schultz, who lives in the building with her three children, sees potential in the plan.
“It wouldn’t be so bad. It’s an older building,” she said. “We have three children, so more space would be sufficient for us.”
For Schultz and other residents, the redevelopment could offer more than just a new gas station; it might signal a long-overdue upgrade for the neighborhood.
“I feel it will definitely be better for the neighborhood, for the area, and hopefully stop a lot of the collisions that are going on,” Schultz added. “I just hope whatever comes out, it’s for the best.”
The commission’s upcoming decision holds the key to whether this corner of Moraine will remain stuck in the past or accelerate toward a new future fueled by fresh investment and perhaps a Wawa hoagie or two.
