Weather delays new Ultramar’s progress
TRURO, N.S. — Freezing weather is holding up construction of a new gas bar and convenience store that is nonetheless taking shape in Valley.
Originally slated to open in December, the early winter forced rescheduling the opening of the new Ultramar complex on Hwy 4, likely until May. The development will feature the gas station, an On The Run convenience store and a Mcdonald’s restaurant.
“It’s really frustrating, but it’s real estate development, nothing goes exactly to plan and weather plays a big role in development,” said Dave Wallace, vice-president of development for Somerled Properties Inc. “I feel good about the project. I’m excited for when it opens in the spring.”
The complex cannot open until asphalt is laid for the parking lot. However, this cannot be done in icy weather and asphalt plants have pretty much shut down oper- ations until spring.
“Once they’re open, you’re looking at a couple of weeks,” said Wallace.
All that will be left to do after the asphalt is applied is finishing up the building interior work and furnishings.
Somerled is hoping to have the new gas station complex open before June.
Once it’s up and running, the eight-pump gas bar will be a convenient stop for drivers travelling along the busy Hwy 104.
Wallace said the Salmon River development will be a new commercial centre at the eastern end of Valley, catering to roughly 10,000 people living within five kilometres of it. He said these local people are presently underserved, as are passing motorists.
According to Wallace, Somerled specializes in building commercial projects in rural areas. As well as Valley, they are building a similar development in Pictou, a car wash on an existing gas station in Yarmouth, while another project for Glace Bay is in its early stages.