Proposed Royal Farms Would Fill Longtime Vacant Corner in Eldersburg

The vacant corner at the intersection of Routes 32 and 26 could be filled as early as next year.

The Carroll County Planning and Zoning Commission is holding a public meeting today to discuss ongoing plans for a Royal Farms convenience store and gas station in Eldersburg.

The business would become the first to fill the empty gap left by the demolished Korner Karry Out and Milt’s Liquor Store, .

“We’re always excited when we find a place like Eldersburg to build more stores,” said Ed Stronski, marketing manager at Royal Farms. “The area has great businesses and great growth potential.”

The site plan includes a 5,125-square-foot building and 16 gas pumps, according to county documents.

The Baltimore-based Royal Farms has 132 stores in Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia and Delaware, but this would be only the third location in Carroll County. The convenience store chain currently has locations in Westminster and Gamber.

“There are many people in the area who commute outside of Carroll County. We’re hoping the store will be convenient for those who live nearby,” said Stronski. “We have received several comments from area residents asking for more stores in the county, and we’re hoping to give them just that.”

The vacant corner in Eldersburg has been the subject of several attempted face-lifts with the county government and the Freedom Area Citizens Council (FACC) working to make the area represent the town that ranks among one of the in the United States.

In February, a $4,000 Eldersburg welcome sign was erected in a cooperative effort between the Carroll County Government, the Freedom Area Citizens Council and the Carroll County Office of Economic Development in hopes of giving the unincorporated town an identity. 

President of the FACC, Ellen Dix believes that the proposed business isn't exactly right for the Eldersburg intersection.

“I understand that if someone wants to build a business and they meet the requirements from zoning, they have every right to build. I’ve seen the plans and it will be a nice structure but I do not understand why those at Royal Farms thought that corner was suited for them,” said Dix.

“We already have a gas station across the street and three more down Liberty Road.”

There are eight gas stations within a three-mile radius of Eldersburg, with an additional gas station being constructed at the new on Liberty Road.

“Why would I stop and get my milk and bread at Royal Farms when I can go to and get points towards cents off of my gas,” said Dix. “During these economic times, why would someone shop at Royal Farms unless they are going to have the gas prices reflect the savings at Martins?”

The Carroll County Planning and Zoning Commission meeting and discussion of the proposed Royal Farms takes place at 9:30 a.m. Tuesday, Sept. 20 in the County Office Building in Eldersburg.