What's Happening in Lebanon, OH…

Lebanon may soon have a Pilot Travel Center, following years of discussion, negotiation, and litigation.

According to a June 3 news item, the centers, which are truck stops that feature showers, high-flow gas pumps, food, business services such as UPS and FedEx, cater to long-distance truck drivers. The new center has been granted permission to open at I-71 and Ohio 123, east of Lebanon.

The company has been seeking approval of its plans since 2012. The new center is part of a 10.5-acre project, which is believed by some to be the impetus for further development of over 380 acres located near the interchange. In order to have its plans approved, Pilot agreed to build a sewer-line from Lebanon to the new center.

Plans for the sewer-line extension fell through, leading Pilot to request permission to build a sewage system onsite. Pilot representative Brad Alsup said the chain of truck stops would far prefer to be hooked to the public sewer system, but as the main objective was to get the center open, he would like to see construction started.

Area residents have opposed the plan, citing fears of having too much sewage discharged near their homes; they also believe opening the center could result in increased prostitution. However, the Ohio EPA has already given Pilot permission to build the center and on-site sewage system.

Pilot might want to work with brochure printers on a booklet explaining its purpose and company philosophy, and make them available to residents.