WATERVILLE – South Pray Boulevard is undergoing a change as Meijer continues construction of a 160,000-square-foot retail store and 3,600-square-foot gas station and convenience store on 25 acres. Plus, Buffalo Wild Wings is planning a 7,600-square-foot restaurant next to the O’Reilly Auto Parts. Both are expected to open by Memorial Day 2027, said Municipal Administrator Jon Gochenour, who was the guest speaker for the June Waterville Area Chamber of Commerce luncheon.
“It’s a significant investment in the city,” Gochenour said of Meijer, noting that the property value is estimated at $32 million, and that will provide tax revenue to both the city and Anthony Wayne Local Schools. In addition, Meijer expects to hire 300 to 350 employees, who will contribute income tax revenue to help pay for city services.
Meijer is investing in significant roadway improvements as well, including a 600-foot eastbound right turn lane on the south side of S.R. 64; a 480-foot westbound right turn lane on the north side of S.R. 64 to access U.S. 24; and a traffic signal on the east side of the bypass that will allow traffic to flow more easily around the interchange and down to Waterville-Monclova Road.
Meijer has two outlots – one along S.R. 64 west of the gas station and one on the south end of the Meijer property – that have garnered a lot of interest…