Wawa: Titusville ‘on priority list’

It’s official. Wawa is setting its sights on Titusville.

In a meeting with Commissioner Robin Fisher, who represents the northern end of the county, Wawa officials said they have been looking at sites in Titusville and that the city is on its “priority list.” Fisher met with Mary Frayman, a regional real estate manager for the popular gas and food store chain. Developers from Matthew Development, LLC were also present.

Although Frayman could not name specific sites, she said company leaders had toured Titusville and liked what they saw.

“Titusville’s an important market for us,” she said.

She did mention that the rumored site at the intersections of State Roads 405 and 50 wasn’t a good fit. However, she noted that a location near an interstate would be ideal.

Frayman said she would have more answers in about six months.

Fisher, who will leave office in November, emphasized he’d like to help move a project forward, so the sooner the better. Holly Carver, Fisher’s assistant, gave a detailed sales pitch to the Wawa crew, emphasizing the city’s growth and good fit for the company.

Developer Matt Williams’ team explained that Wawas typically take between 18 and 20 months from start to completion. They’re usually around 6,100 square feet and include 50 to 60 parking spots. Stores offer gas pumps, but are more of an “inside experience,” compared to other chains, said Frayman. The allure of Wawa comes from its cafe-style setup inside that serves food to order, along with specialty drinks and baked goods.

“We’re excited,” said Fisher.

“We are too,” Frayman replied. “… We are excited. We will be calling.”

The meeting follows a column published by FLORIDA TODAY titled, “Hey Wawa, why no love for Titusville?”

Fisher said the article spiked the interest of local Wawa developers and helped expedite the process.

“Let me play, coach,” Fisher said to the Wawa team.

“We are definitely focused on Titusville. We can tell you that,” said Frayman.

Jessica Saggio, FLORIDA TODAY 9:51 p.m. EDT April 22, 2016 Source