Casey's Purchased an Entire Block; Hopes to Build 6th Site in Area

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. -- A purchase agreement is in place for Casey's General Stores to buy an entire block located here. The company takes over the long-vacant lot from the Communication Service for the Deaf, who owns the city block and since 2002 had intended to build on the land, ArgusLeader.com reported. The property has been for sale since 2008.

Kristen Zueger, a commercial broker with Heg Cos. is working on the deal, according to the Web site. Yet, it is still unclear what plans Casey's has in store for the development of the land. According to the Web site, Casey's has filed a conditional-use permit with the city planning commission to develop part of the block; the entire block is zoned C-2 for general commercial.

The permit that Casey's has would allow the c-store chain to develop a site greater than one acre and to allow off-sale alcohol sales within 500 feet of a school. According to ArgusLeader.com, the plan is for a convenience store and gas pumping station encompassing Casey's new design.

The project hinges on a number of issues falling into place such as approval of the conditional-use permit, William Walljasper, senior vice president and chief financial officer for Casey's told the Web site. 
Walljasper added that the proposed store on East 10th, with about 3,700 square feet, would be different from its existing stores and include a made-to-order sub shop, an expansive coffee bar, self-serve ice cream and a more modern look in addition to traditional offerings; it also would have a sit-down area for people to eat.

If everything goes as planned Walljasper said the company should begin construction in the spring. When the new c-store location is built it would bring the count of Casey's General Stores to six in the area.