Zoning Board Questions 7-Eleven Traffic Study [VIDEO]

The Huntington Zoning Board of Appeals questioned a traffic study presented by 7-Eleven at a public hearing on Thursday, saying that projected traffic patterns for the are not based on observation of existing convenience stores in the area.

"Don't they take as a sample what's going on out in Kansas and Troy, New York, and Albuerquerque?" Chairman Christopher Modelewski asked of the Institute of Transportation Engineers data used in the study.

The lack of direct observance data was not the only concern that arose from the board. Members also asked for additional studies of traffic impact during weekend and school hours, noting nearby schools and access challenges from the east.

The proposed 7-Eleven plan would turn more than half of the current Nocello's site from a "sea of asphalt" into a "green belt," according to 7-Eleven's representatives, and the building would be reduced to half its current size to comply with the town's new zoning regulations adopted in June. The Town is Eleven for these new regulations, which the company claims unfairly inhibit their ability to build a store.

Representatives for 7-Eleven agreed to submit supplemental traffic studies and a revised site plan. "We have some serious concerns about safety and the overall design of the site," said Modelewski.

The public hearing will be continued next month during which time members of the public can speak. All materials presented at the public hearing are available from the Zoning Board of Appeals Office.

Additional coverage of the proposed 7-Eleven can be found .