Proposed Gas Station At Curtis Park Development Meets Backlash

SACRAMENTO (CBS13) – The fight between Curtis Park Character Advocates and developers is beginning to heat up.

The advocates say their survey proves a proposed business plan is being shoved down their throat.

The controversy is centered on Curtis Park Village, a once-toxic rail yard now being developed into homes and retail businesses.

The latest fight is over a proposed gas station.

Developers of Curtis Park Village recently noted that Safeway, which is interested in opening a store at the development, wants a gas station in their plans – something these advocates say has no place in the neighborhood.

"We're not saying no to development, we're saying yes to locally owned, small businesses," Rosanna Herber said.

They say their survey – designed by Sacramento State University professors and analyzed by students – proves that residents of Curtis Park don't want it either. They say nearly 82% oppose additional gas stations.

Instead they want locally owned businesses – like new restaurants, bars, coffeehouses and specialty food stores.

RELATED: Sacramento's Curtis Park Named One Of Top 10 Most Desirable Neighborhoods In Country

"Formula retail chain stores tend to make neighborhoods all look like and they diminish neighborhood character," Ave said.

On YouTube, developers produced a video depicting two versions of Curtis Park Village – one with the Safeway.

The neighborhood is seemingly bustling, with tree lined boulevards, and filled parking lots. The other has what looks like vacant local stores, empty streets and empty parking lots.

Developers are saying Safeway will walk if the gas station is not approved.

We may find out as soon as next month what ends up happening.