Hearing on signs set for proposed GetGo in Greensburg

A public hearing regarding signs for the GetGo development planned at the former Family Video store in Greensburg is scheduled for this week.

The hearing, scheduled for 4 p.m. Wednesday in the council chambers at Greensburg City Hall, will consist of developers going in front of the zoning hearing board to discuss the sign package that did not initially meet the city’s requirements. The developers are seeking a variance, according to a meeting agenda.

Development of the gas station and convenience store, which were already approved, will not be up for discussion during the hearing, said Jeff Raykes, city planning director.

“This is a good group of developers and I think they’ll do the right thing, it’s just a matter of getting them into a spot where they’re aligned with our ordinance,” Raykes said.

Council members in October granted conditional approval for the gas station. The project will include tearing down the Family Video building.

Conditions include a $25,000 donation from Giant Eagle, the company that owns GetGo, for construction of gateway signs leading into the city. Other conditions were related to stormwater management and officials receiving a higher occupancy permit from PennDOT.

According to Raykes, a traffic management plan is under review.

He noted that improvements to the intersection of Euclid Avenue and S. Main Street are underway to make it more pedestrian-friendly.

Still, some area businesses are concerned about a possible increase in traffic.

Jim Heater, manager a Main Bowling Center, said traffic already backs up at the intersection because of how the road and traffic lights are set up. The bowling alley is adjacent to the former Family Video property, split by an alley that is currently used as a thruway.

“People use (the alley) that aren’t our customers and that’s just going to increase traffic in our parking lot is my belief,” Heater said.

Heater said he is also concerned about foot traffic from people walking to the gas station.

“There’s going to be concerns and headaches that we have to deal with,” he said.

Down the street at Comrades Barber Shop, manager Jamie Henderson was excited for the development and the increase of possible customers to the area.

Henderson said his only concern about the development is parking, but Raykes ensured site plans show more than enough parking spots at the gas station.

“Anytime that there’s something improving around here, it’s good for business,” Henderson said.