In a recent Whispering Pines Village Council meeting, progress was made toward developing an O’Reilly Auto Parts Store on one of the out-parcels at the Shops at Whispering Pines Shopping Center.
During the meeting, the council had the opportunity to address questions and concerns related to the design and procedural aspects of the project. Oliver Kaija, a representative from Bohler Engineering — the civil plan development firm representing O’Reilly — was present to provide insights into the project’s design, landscaping, and utility plans.
Image via Village of Whispering Pines.
A special use permit initially granted in 2009 encompasses the entire property, including the out-parcels, and paves the way for the new addition to the retail landscape. The proposed O’Reilly Auto Parts Store will share the same entrance as the existing Food Lion, providing convenient access for shoppers in the area.
Previously, concerned residents voiced anxieties that the addition of the O’Reilly building may impede their parking and access to Food Lion. However, these fears were assuaged when Kaija explained that O’Reilly would not only be on a separate parcel but that O’Reilly generally tends to add an overabundance of parking. This specific O’Reilly location even has eight more parking spaces than the initial suggested amount, alleviating any potential issues with parking capacity and ensuring a smooth shopping experience for both the auto parts store and Food Lion patrons.
It was also further clarified that the property, having been annexed into the village several years ago, is required to adhere to the original design requirements. As of now, all proposed elements, such as lighting, parking spaces, and building appearance, align with the village code and will harmoniously blend with the overall aesthetic of the shopping center.
Regarding infrastructure and services, the property already benefits from existing water and power lines, and O’Reilly will oversee the upkeep of the physical property and landscaping. Kaija was able to answer the council’s questions and ensure the current proposed plans checked all the necessary boxes.
The council unanimously consented to move forward with the plans and will hear further discussion at an upcoming meeting on August 9.
~Written by Sandhills Sentinel reporter Abegail Murphy. Photo by Sandhills Sentinel photographer Melissa Schaub.
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