At a meeting of the West Utica concerned citizens, East and West Utica residents came together to hear from Project Manager for Stewart's Shops Chuck Marshall. 

Marshall explained why the convenience chain prefers an East Utica location over a West Utica location that is without any type of food or gas options.

Marshall said the lack of competitors on the west side could mean that a store wouldn't thrive there especially without knowing what traffic patterns will look like after the Arterial project is completed.

He added that if the east Utica location is successful, Stewart's will look to open another store in the downtown area after the Arterial project is finished.

Anjela Mescall is an East Utica resident who is opposed to the location and says since Stewart's is a community friendly company they should listen to local residents.

Stewart's representatives will be at a meeting of the City's Planning Board at City Hall on May 12.

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