Marion’s Wells Gas considers bigger building

Jul 15, 2019

MARION — Owners at the Wells Gas Station are considering changes that would shift the fuel pump locations, add a diesel pump and rebuild their current building to add more space for retail or service at the station. 

Bill Madden with GAF Engineering and Anthi Frangiadis of Anthi Frangiadis Architecture appeared before the Planning Board on July 15 to present initial plans on the work and get feedback. 

Madden said that the station has “been a staple in the community, providing fuel and what have you for a number of years,” Madden said. 

The gas station at 439 Wareham Road came before the Planning Board in 2015 with plans to change their current setup, adding a second story to the building that would have been used for a gym. Now the T-shaped building will be just one floor, 3,100 square feet in total.  

Madden added that the traffic flow at the site will be very similar to how it is now, with the two entrances where they are now and one off of Mill Street. He hopes to create a circular pattern for ease of delivery, but also add a sidewalk for pedestrians. 

Members of the Planning Board were concerned with the traffic pattern, especially with Mill Street being a one way street and the plaza across the street adding a lot of in and out traffic.

One member, Andrew Daniel, suggested that widening the way that the entrance curves might help. Building Commissioner Scott Shippey reminded Madden and Frangiadis that the Fire Department would need access around the whole building, and suggested they clearly define where the traffic flow is going to go.

Board member Norm Hills jumped in to suggest that the station might “paint arrows on the ground” to direct drivers. 

The board will require a traffic study for the project. 

Hills was also concerned about the “diesel fuel dispenser, out there by itself.”

However, Daniel added that “I was going to praise it for that,” noting that if you have a big diesel pickup truck, backing it in to an attached pump can be difficult. 

Hills also asked the gas station to consider adding charging stations for electric cars. 

Frangiadis and Madden said they would like to aim for a Sept. 3 public hearing on the plan, but will work with the Planning Board administrator to see if they can complete the paperwork for that date.