Walgreens is a go
By Elizabeth Billips Associate Editor

Waynesboro is getting a Walgreens.

Last Thursday, the city's Historic Preservation Commission (HPC) gave United Retail Development permission to build the 14,490-square foot building on South Liberty Street.

The plans, which had already passed the planning commission and city council, were approved unanimously in what HPC vicechairman Bob Buttermark called "part three of the Walgreen's saga."

Prior to the vote, two residents spoke in opposition of the project, citing concerns over traffic and the effect of "creeping commercialism" on the adjoining historic neighborhood.

"Everybody likes to see things preserved exactly as they are, but we also have to accommodate growth," ex officio member Mayor Jesse Stone responded.

As part of their approval, commissioners spelled out numerous conditions aimed at helping the new construction better blend into the historic district.

In accordance to one of them, the company must relocate the front portion of a historic structure that sits on the proposed construction site.

According to current owner Janice Morris, the structure will be moved to a nearby property facing Manau Lane where it will continue to be used as her real estate office.

"I don't suppose there's anybody in this room who wants to see that little house go," commissioner Mary Hargrove said. "But the fact is that lot is zoned commercial, and James and Janice (Morris) have a right to decide what to do with their property."