Bank of America proposed for Gate House Plaza
Bank of America is seeking approval to occupy the old Uno Pizzeria space at Gate House Plaza in Merrifield. Uno closed last January.
The Planning Commission will simultaneously consider Bank of America’s applications for an amendment to the Comprehensive Plan and a zoning special exception, says Aaron Klibaner of the Fairfax County Department of Planning and Development. Hearings will be scheduled within the next six months.
A plan amendment is needed because Bank of America is requesting a drive-through for 3058 Gate House Plaza. The Comprehensive Plan limits the number of drive-throughs at the Gate House retail center to four, including one for a bank, one for a service station with a car wash and quick food service, and two for restaurants.
Gate House Plaza already has four businesses with drive-throughs – at the Sunoco gas station and carwash, Wendy’s, Panda Express, and Starbucks.
Raising Cane’s, a fast-food restaurant specializing in chicken fingers, will replace Wendy’s. That project only needs administrative approval because the building already has a drive-through.
Related story: Raising Cane’s will replace Wendy’s at Gatehouse Plaza
Wait, there’s currently a Bank of America just across the street, also at Gallows Rd and Gatehouse.
Does BofA want a 2nd location, or hope to move 200 yards west while seeking approval to build a (new) drive-thru between the old Uno Pizzaria and Sweetwaters?
That plaza does NOT need more thru traffic. Just say no!
I’m neutral on the bank going in. Having said that, if the bank wants a drive through, give it to them. The article quotes the comprehensive plan as approving a drive through for a bank. It also approves a service station and TWO restaurants. Approving a third restaurant outside of comprehensive plans tells one the plan means nothing.