A Dollar General store is one step closer to opening in Grove, following a recent decision by the James City County Planning Commission.
The commission voted unanimously Wednesday to recommend approval of a special-use permit that would allow the 9,000-square-foot store to be built at 8766 Pocahontas Trail, an undeveloped lot across from Carter’s Grove.
The JCC Board of Supervisors is tentatively set to vote on the special-use permit request at its July 12 meeting.
“I think it’s a great idea. It brings a needed service to the Grove area,” said Commissioner Robin Bledsoe (Jamestown). “Many of the Grove residents end up shopping in other areas. This will help keep that business in James City County.”
The recommendation was made with a request from Commissioner Chris Basic (Berkeley) that evergreen trees, rather than deciduous trees, be planted as part of the store’s landscaping.
Commissioner Danny Schmidt (Roberts), who represents the area where the store would be built, said he hasn’t heard “anything negative” from Grove residents about the project.
Schmidt said he appreciates the consideration taken to respect the Carter’s Grove historic area, which includes a house and land from the original plantation.
“I’m glad to hear folks concerned about Carter’s Grove,” he said, “because even though we know it’s in private hands now, I wouldn’t be surprised if in the future the landowner opens it up to the public.”
The developers are working with the Virginia Department of Transportation to relocate a bus stop currently situated in front of the site.