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PLAINS TWP. — A new Dunkin’ Donuts in Plains Township is slated to open in May, franchise owner Michelle Wise said.
The former M&T Bank building on River Street is located near a busy three-street intersection with Gallagher Drive, West Ann and Poplar streets.
This prime location, chosen for its high-traffic and close proximity to residential and businesses created rumors of concern of increase traffic making it harder for residents to turn onto River Street.
Robert Sax, Plains Township commissioner chairman, said the municipality has not received any complaints on potential traffic issues.
“That is a difficult intersection because the streets (Poplar Street, Gallagher Drive and West Ann Street) are not aligned,” Sax said. “That building was always a bank. I am unaware of any major accidents in that area.”
James May, spokesman for PennDOT, said the department has not received the Highway Occupancy Permit from Dunkin’ Donuts, but it is common in many business-to-business sales the previous permit maybe “grandfathered,” or passed to the new owners.
Wise does not believe traffic will be an issue. She said the property came with a pre-curbed entrance off South River Street and a well defined exit onto Gallagher Drive.
“I think the traffic will flow really well,” Wise said.
People at neighboring businesses said they welcome the new franchise to the area.
Gerry Kashuda, a six-year employee with Mountain Beverage across the street, does not think Dunkin’ Donuts will create traffic issues.
“I think it (traffic) will remain about the same,” Kashuda said. “I am looking forward to them opening.”
Paul Gallagher, owner of Gallagher Floral Supply on Gallagher Drive, said “it is to early to push the panic button.” He said he does not think the business will increase traffic but would like to see PennDOT install a traffic light at the three-road intersection.
The franchise will bring an additional 20 to 30 full- and part-time jobs to the area, Wise said. A job fair will be held from noon to 4 p.m. April 6, in the Dunkin’ Donuts in Edwardsville.
The Plains Township property will be the 19th franchise for Wise and her husband, Jon. In March, the couple opened their 18th location on Route 115 in Bear Creek.