“It's always good when a company makes an investment,” said Roanoke Valley Chamber of Commerce President Allen Purser said before a ribbon-cutting ceremony at the store at the intersection of Old Farm Road and Julian R. Allsbrook Highway. “We appreciate Sheetz coming and making an investment in the Roanoke Valley.”
With Sheetz open, a Zaxby's on the way and other development along Premier Boulevard, Purser said the new store adds to what is being done in the community. “You've got local businesses making investments, look at White Motors, New Dixie, Little Caesars. It's great to see that kind of investment in the Roanoke Valley.”
Roanoke Rapids Planning and Development Director Kelly Lasky, who has kept city council apprised of the progress since first making the announcement in August of 2013 the store was coming, said she was pleased. “From start to finish, from the initial visit through permitting and site development, it's been a very good experience.”
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Mayor Emery Doughtie, who also spoke during the ribbon-cutting ceremony, said, “Sheetz is here,” a reference to initial rumors that circulated the Altoona, Pennsylvania company wasn't coming. “We're hoping it's going to bring people off the interstate and bring in some tax dollars. Sheetz has worked hard to develop a brand. This is a store that will add to retail sales.”
City Manager Joseph Scherer was also pleased the plans came together. “I'm just happy to see another business locate here.”
Sammy Isles, a Roanoke Rapids High School student who came to the grand opening, said he believed the store will be good for the city. “We've always had regular stores. Now we have another place to go and more things to do and cheaper gas for kids who want to ride around. It brings a lot of opportunity to the area.”
The company gave a donation to Special Olympics.
As of the grand opening, gas was priced at $2.09.
The Roanoke Rapids Sheetz has a drive-through, company officials said, one of less than 40 that have that feature. It will have free Internet as well as the usual food ordering points and ready to eat sandwiches.
Adam Sheetz, director of operations for North Carolina, was pleased with the turnout on the coldest day of the year. “We're thrilled to be here today and want to thank our store team. You guys are going to a fantastic job.”
