Chandler is getting more food and gas options, with Casey’s convenience store and Taco Bell set to be built in the coming months.
Casey’s has already closed and is set to build across from Walmart off Route 66 on the east side of town, according to City Manager Jason Orr. It’s located in a new commercial area that has already been platted, which made it easier for Casey’s to buy the property.
Orr added that this practice of pre-plotting commercial areas is more common in places with bigger populations; however, it does make things easier for future businesses that plan to move into town. It’s a good way to look ahead and make sure there’s no confusion in roads or buildings. Orr said the only thing needed for construction is the driveway permit from the Oklahoma Department of Transportation.
While there is currently no set date for when Casey’s will break ground, Orr believes it will be relatively soon.
“They have all their plans already submitted. They’ve already done a lot of the legwork before they even closed,” he said. “As soon as they get this driveway permit, that should be very soon after.”
Orr commented that people are happy about the competition, which might lead to lower gas prices in town.
Taco Bell has a contract on property next to Central Oklahoma Federal Credit Union on Route 66 and is set to close within the next week or two, Orr said.
They have also been busy with their due diligence. He said the city has been working with them on their site layout, utilities and driveway connection.
“I want to say thank you to the credit union, too, because we’ve worked with them. We’re going to have a common driveway between those two,” he said.
Like Casey’s, construction has no set timeframe, but Orr suspects it won’t take long before folks can get their Baha Blasts. Taco Bell has most of the work completed, and it should be good to go soon.
He said he’s excited about both businesses, which will give Chandler citizens more options. He added that City Hall has been working hard behind the scenes to make things happen. Within the next several months, Chandler residents can swing by Taco Bell and Casey’s.
“Fill up with tacos and fill up with gas,” Orr said.
With the upcoming subdivisions set to add more roofs to town, the city is working to attract more businesses. City Hall has put together an economic development brochure that will be presented at the next City Council meeting on July 9 by intern Natalie Nell.
I think it’s going to be a good tool for us to attract more businesses,” Orr said. “You have more jobs, more sales tax dollars, more amenities for the community, better places to eat… The list goes on and on.”