Sheetz Submits Plans to Replace Sacred Heart Church, Apple Annie’s in Roseville

Sheetz has submitted plans to construct a new gas station at the corner of Gratiot Avenue and Utica Road in Roseville, which would replace the long-standing Apple Annie's Kitchen and Bakery and the former Sacred Heart Catholic Church that closed in 2017. To accommodate the construction of the new gas station, both structures would be demolished.

In a statement released to WXYZ-TV, Sheetz Public Affairs Manager Nick Ruffner said, “Sheetz can confirm it is planning to build a store at the corner of Gratiot Avenue and Utica Road, and we are excited to be joining the Roseville community. Given that the building located at this site has been abandoned for several years, we are working with local officials to stimulate economic growth, create meaningful jobs, and bring new opportunities to the area.”

Roseville City Manager Ryan Monroe explained that the site plan for the gas station was approved by the Planning Commission earlier in February. Given that Sheetz has not requested rezoning or variances, no further approval is needed. 

Leonard Pagano, co-owner of the family-run Apple Annie's, said the decision to sell the 26-year-old establishment was a difficult one to make. “I would probably say within the next five years, I'd be looking to retire and sell it,” he said, “but this came along and it's pretty much a clean-out, you know?” Pagano said a purchase agreement with Sheetz for the restaurant property was signed last year. 

Meanwhile, the Archdiocese of Detroit has confirmed Sacred Heart Church is under contract with a potential buyer. An archdiocese spokesperson confirmed the Sacred Heart Cemetery would not be impacted by the church sale.

News of the Sheetz gas station development resulted in mixed reactions from Roseville residents. Edward Stross, owner of Gonzo Art Studios, told WXYZ-TV he feels the decision was made too quickly and without any input from the community.