As residents of Urbana, Maryland, we are deeply concerned about the proposed construction of a Sheetz convenience store adjacent to our residential neighborhood near the intersection of Fingerboard and 355. This petition aims to gather support from fellow community members who share our worries regarding the potential negative impact this development could have on our quality of life.

With school aged children growing up in this neighborhood, we have cherished the tranquility and close-knit atmosphere that comes with living amongst friendly neighbors and an accommodating local business community. However, the arrival of a Sheetz store threatens to disrupt this harmony by introducing additional unwanted traffic congestion, excessive noise pollution, and other disturbances near local primary and secondary schools and the YMCA.

While it is understandable that commerce needs to expand and cater to consumer demands, it is crucial for them to consider the surrounding environment and its residents. Unfortunately, locating a large-scale convenience store like Sheetz next to a residential area with three gas and convenience retailers already goes against these principles. 

According to studies conducted by Community Environmental and Defense Services, commercial developments like Sheetz often lead to increased traffic volume due to their convenient locations and extended operating hours. This surge in traffic not only poses safety risks for school-age children, pedestrians and cyclists but also puts additional strain on an already congested intersection. Safety has been such a concern for the immediate area that a major overhaul to Fingerboard Rd in front of the YMCA, and adjacent schools was required and remain insufficient for the task.  The addition of this enterprise will only further strain a still burdened roadway.

Also, we must consider how this development may affect property values within our community. Research conducted by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has shown that proximity to commercial establishments can negatively impact home values due to factors such as increased noise levels or decreased privacy.  Additionally, the prospect of increased crime cannot be ignored with the industry’s own CSP Magazine stating that, “c-stores and gas stations are the fourth and seventh most common locations for violent crime, respectively.”

By signing this petition, we urge the Frederick County Planning Commission and decision-makers involved in zoning regulation and approval to vote no to allowing Sheetz's construction adjacent to our much-cherished residential neighborhood. We believe there are more suitable locations available for such businesses that would not disrupt the peace and harmony we have worked so hard to maintain.

Together, let's protect our community from unnecessary disruptions and preserve the unique character of our residential neighborhood. Sign this petition to voice your opposition against the construction of Sheetz in Urbana, MD.

Thank you for standing with us.