In fact, there are many hurdles to get through before construction begins. “We are figuratively at step B,” said James Gerhart. “So many things have to fall into place. We're excited we're on step B.”

Step B was news published Thursday night that Sheetz had confirmed it was working on bringing a store to Roanoke Rapids. “We're moving forward. There are a host of things that have to all come together before we talk about construction,” he said.

Gerhart said the company has been working on a Roanoke Rapids location for eight years. “We at least have a property owner. We worked out an agreement. Now there are a whole host of other characters in the picture. We have spoken to numerous customers and business owners who call in and say we need to come up here.”

The company will need both city and state Department of Transportation approval to move forward.

Gerhart said it would be premature to discuss gas prices.

City Manager Joseph Scherer said news of the agreement struck between Sheetz and the owners of the former Ryan's was encouraging and that he has been briefed on the project, but not the specific details.

He said the city will work with the company. “I'm always encouraged by development of any of our empty business buildings.”