Rumors about underground gas tanks halting construction at the site of the new Starbucks being built at the corner of South Perryville Boulevard and Alma Avenue in Perryville appear to have no merit, according to Crystal Jones, director of the Perry County Economic Development Authority, and Perryville City Administrator Brent Buerck.
The talk around town was that buried gas tanks that were supposed to be removed when a gas station once located on the site was closed down years ago. This, according to Jones and Buerck, is not the case.
When contacted by the Republic-Monitor, Buerck said he had heard the rumors but didn’t think they had any credibility because he had heard nothing about any problems from the construction company or BMW (Brewer, McCoy and Wiles) Properties Development.
“I know what some people are saying, but I haven’t heard anything about there being a problem with the Starbucks construction,” he said. “As far as I know, construction is still underway.”
Jones told the Republic-Monitor that she had also heard the rumors but didn’t have a reason to believe they are true.
“I know that construction may have been delayed because of the winter weather we’ve had, but I believe they are still planning to be finished later this spring,” she said.
Approximately 50 people came out for the groundbreaking ceremony led by Jones in August.
Addressing the crowd, Jones said, “Today marks an exciting day as we gather here for the groundbreaking of a new business, which is, of course, Starbucks. This isn't just the start of constructing a building; it is what we call the beginning of many other opportunities along the I-55 corridor, attracting visitors and additional revenue into the city of Perryville and Perry County.”
Jones also noted that materials for the construction were being purchased through local suppliers.
“This is good news for our local businesses,’ she said. “Each new and existing business and each new and existing job strengthens our local economy, improves our quality of life, and paves the way for future growth. Starbucks will employ local residents, support families and contribute to the economy of the city of Perryville.”
Addressing the crowd, Perryville Mayor Larry Riney said, “Anytime a business decides to locate in our wonderful city, it is an accomplishment of the hard work and dedication of our residents and a solid foundation laid by our existing businesses. Today's groundbreaking is a testament to the economic potential of our community.”
Attempts to contact BMW Properties Development were unsuccessful.
