JT Butler is using fill dirt transferred from property next to the Starlight Drive-In on Route 8 to elevate property across from the Clearview Mall, where Sheetz and Rite Aid stores are slated for construction.

CENTER TOWNSHIP — Construction has begun for a new Sheetz and Rite Aid across Route 8 from the Clearview Mall.

The construction, being done by JT Butler, is set to be complete by Aug. 1.

JT Butler is using fill dirt transferred from the property next to Starlight Drive-In on Route 8 to land across from Eat’n Park at 114 Clearview Circle.

Once that is finished, work can begin on Sheetz and Rite Aid.

Sheetz director of real estate Dave Hazelet said the new facility is set to be open by Jan. 12.

“We have had many, many requests; for years, a lot of people who must travel for work, I’m assuming, and come down from the north on Route 8, and we’ve had nothing to serve those people,” Hazelet said. “So we’ve tried to locate something for years. Finally the opportunity came up and we jumped on it.”

Hazelet would not disclose the exact cost of the project but said it would cost several million dollars.

The Sheetz will be a 6,500 square-foot building with a drive-through window, seating for 36 inside, and 36 outside. There also will be a car wash, vacuuming for cars, and 12 fueling stations.

Center Township officials are pleased to have new business in town.

“We are always happy when successful businesses like Sheetz choose to locate in Center Township,” said township supervisor Ronald Flatt.

He said of Rite Aid, “We appreciate that Rite Aid is making an investment in our community.”

There already is a Rite Aid located in the Clearview Mall, though Center Township Supervisor Ken Frenchak said he expects that location to close.

“It is our understanding that they are relocating from the mall to (the new) location,” he said.