A prominent Innisfil landmark is getting a makeover.
The long-time Pioneer gas station on the southwest corner of the Innisfil Beach Road and Yonge Street intersection closed recently — its pumps now blocked by yellow caution tape and the familiar branding and signage blacked out — with plans for the redevelopment of the site now apparently underway.
“This property obtained a council approval for an Official Plan amendment and zoning bylaw amendment in 2023 to permit the expansion of the existing highway commercial development consisting of a gas station, convenience store and restaurant uses,” town planning and growth director Andria Leigh said. “Future redevelopment is subject to site plan approval. To date they have not submitted a site plan to the town.”
The property currently consists of the station, store, two single-detached homes and vacant land, states a staff report written shortly before council passed the amendments.
When the station reopens, however, it won’t be under its familiar brand.
“Despite our desire to continue serving our customers at this Innisfil location for years to come, we were unable to come to terms with our landlord,” said Tara Overholt, a spokesperson for Pioneer’s parent company. “For over 20 years, our retailer and staff have created an incredible bond with the community, and we appreciate their business. We would love to serve them at our Pioneer sites in Bradford and Barrie.”
While some heavy lifting still remains for the developer — listed in the staff report as two numbered companies care of Sandra Cook — what’s tentatively planned for the site, officially known as 7364 Yonge St. and 2241 and 2229 Innisfil Beach Rd., will expand its commercial uses significantly.
Reconstruction is proposed to happen over two phases, resulting in two drive-thru restaurants and a tunnel car wash being added. A rendering and map of the proposal also show the footprint of the gas station and convenience store would remain largely unchanged.
“The proposal is located at a major arterial intersection at the gateway into the primary settlement area of Alcona and is adjacent to the municipal civic campus,” planning manager Brandon Correia said in the report. “The proposed development will provide expanded services to the existing rural commercial uses that will serve the travelling public.”
The full staff report is available at innisfil.civicweb.net. More background documents can be found at getinvolvedinnisfil.ca.
