A proposal to convert an existing auto repair property at 1851 E. Ridge Pike in Upper Providence Township into a full-service car wash is moving forward following a review by the township's planning commission.
The project, identified as Spotless Car Wash, is being proposed by Flagship Pennsylvania Propco, LLC. The property is located along Ridge Pike, just east of Township Line Road.
During the Wednesday, November 4, planning commission meeting, representatives for the applicant discussed outstanding traffic concerns and revisions intended to satisfy the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation.
One of the primary issues involves restricting left turns into and out of the property. The proposed driveway would include a raised, triangular traffic island, commonly called a "pork chop," to direct vehicles into right-in, right-out movements.
The applicant also proposed installing a traffic barrier known as a QWICK KURB along the centerline of Ridge Pike to further discourage prohibited left turns. The barrier would be positioned to avoid interfering with the nearby Wawa driveway.
The applicant's traffic engineer, Guy DiMartino, said the proposed barrier would be included in the project's next submission to PennDOT. Township representatives indicated that the remaining traffic-related concerns appeared manageable.
Following the discussion, the planning commission voted to recommend preliminary and final land development approval to the board of supervisors, provided the applicant addresses remaining issues with the plans and obtains the necessary permits.
The proposal is among a number of recent car wash developments in the Spring-Ford area. Upper Providence supervisors reviewed a proposal in August to replace the former Uno restaurant in Oaks with a car wash, while a former Rite Aid in Royersford is currently being converted into a Flagship Carwash following approval of the project earlier this year.
The Ridge Pike property sits immediately west of The Shoppes at Upper Providence shopping center. To the east of the shopping center, a separate mixed-use development proposed by Foxlane Homes is also under consideration.
