Demolition work on a former south Richland gas station is complete but the corner lot’s future is still up in the air.

The gas station at 590 W. Gage Blvd. closed in the spring, and the owner of the local Roasters coffee chain announced his plan to add a drive-thru coffee stand there.

But the plan has hit a snag, with Roasters owner Wes Heyden citing concerns about the site.

“There have been some concerning issues with the Department of Ecology on this site. It may derail the possibility of Roasters building there. While the deal has been penciled out, these issues may keep us from being able to move forward on this project,” he said.

The property is owned by Circle K Stores Inc. and realtor Lance Bacon of Kiemle Hagood said it is in the process of being sold with a December closing date. Heyden had planned to lease the property.

The underground gas tanks were removed, and Bacon said the state Department of Ecology added well monitors for additional testing.

Ecology has listed the property as a “confirmed or suspected contaminated site,” with six contaminants suspected in the groundwater and two confirmed in the soil.

Bacon said the site would be great for a quick service restaurant, possibly serving subs or pizza.

Bacon intends to market the property with new signs advertising it is available for lease.

Since the plans for the property are not finalized, the building will not be demolished unless it is determined a future tenant won’t need it, Bacon said.

Editor's note: This story has been updated to clarify that Roasters intended to lease the property. (10/16/19)