Zoning change opens door for unmanned fueling station

By Audrey Posten, North Iowa Times

The Clayton County Board of Supervisors has approved a zoning change for property located by the U.S. Highway 18 turnoff to the city of McGregor that would allow Three Rivers FS to develop bulk fuel storage and an unmanned fueling station at the site.

The plan “is still in its infancy,” said Three Rivers FS General Manager Chris Salrin. “We wanted to get the property zoned so we can know what options are before us and look at business opportunities from a retail energy standpoint.”

The 11- to 12-acre parcel, which is situated at 14434 Keystone Road, at the intersection of U.S. Highway 18 and Business 18, was attractive to Three Rivers FS due to its size and location.

“It’s a high-visibility site with a lot of traffic,” Salrin said. “And with the size it is, there’s an opportunity to do a lot of things.”

One aspect includes an unmanned fuel site that Salrin said would provide 24-hour access to fuel for commercial trucks, semis and other vehicles. It would be similar to the company’s FAST STOP location in Elkader.

“We’re not looking at a convenience store,” he noted.

Salrin said Three Rivers FS hopes this move will increase the company’s presence in the area and better serve patrons.

“We’re really focused on bringing value to those we serve,” he stated. “Investing in rural America shows our commitment to the community.”

Salrin said work at the site could begin as soon as this summer.