More commercial development proposed for South Fayette
As tenants in the Gateway Shops continue to open and the Newbury Market slowly comes to fruition, both could be getting next-door neighbors in South Fayette Township.
Following the recommendation of the township planning commission, South Fayette commissioners will vote Sept. 21 on two proposals: a shopping center at the former St. Anthony’s Church location, at Hickory Grade Road and Route 50, and replacing the recently closed Knights Inn, 111 Hickory Grade Road, with a Fairfield Inn.
While commissioners still have to meet to discuss the projects Sept. 14, then vote a week later, township manager Ryan Eggleston mentioned the importance of continuing to make the corridor a commercially taxed area and a welcoming entry to the township.
“It’s definitely a gateway to the community,” said Eggleston. “We’re hopeful that we will possibly see a very nice aesthetic development. For many years, it was a great community aspect with St. Anthony’s, but it has sat dormant for years now.”
The shopping complex site would be split into three lots and include a one-story retail building housing Dunkin’ Donuts, Washington Financial bank and a yet-to-be-identified restaurant.
The tentatively planned five-story Fairfield Inn and Suites would accompany the nearby Hampton Inn for more lodging adjacent to Interstate 79.
“They will both feed off the energy of the corridor, and our hope is that they will be complementary to one another,” said Eggleston about the Newbury Market and the possible additions on the other side of Route 50. “We feel like with our location and the growing nature of our township, there is room for growth in that retail sector.”