P&Z OKs convenience store at foot of Emerson bridge

ºSoutheast Missourian

A proposed convenience store-gas station near the new Bill Emerson Memorial Bridge won approval from Cape Girardeau's Planning and Zoning Commission on Wednesday night despite opposition from neighborhood residents who fear it will lower property values, increase traffic congestion and lead to more crime.

Commissioners dismissed those concerns, saying they believe convenience store developer Scott Blank's project will improve the neighborhood. It would be built on the southeast corner of South Sprigg Street and Highway 74.

"I see this as progress," said commissioner John Clippard. He and other commissioners said the new bridge will spark more commercial development.

The commission's recommendation to rezone the property from residential to commercial and issue a special use permit came on a 10-0 vote. Commissioner Robert Blank, whose family wants to build the convenience store-gas station, abstained.

The issue now goes to the Cape Girardeau City Council.

Eldon Nattier and James Coley, who operate the Rose Bed Inn at 611 S. Sprigg across the street from the proposed development, said the city doesn't need another convenience store.

Coley said it would result in increased traffic and attract more crime.

In other business, the commission:

Rejected a request of Carol and Curtis Greer to operate a business from their home at 329 Edgewood.

Approved a request to rezone 820 rear North Sprigg from residential to commercial.

Approved the request of St. Francis Medical Center for a special use permit to place a temporary mobile office at 150 S. Mount Auburn Road.

Turned down a request by Frank Snider III for a special use permit to operate a private detective agency at 901 S. Benton. The request died for lack of a motion.

Approved a special use permit for an addition to a home at 825 Independence.

Approved a request of St. Vincent De Paul Church for a special use permit to install a lighted sign at 742 Forest Ave.