Sheetz set to transform long-blighted Oakland County corner
Posted By: Detroit Free Press on July 10, 2026. For more information, please click here to read the source article.
Demolition of a long-vacant building is nearly complete as a major transformation takes shape at one of Highland Township’s busiest intersections.
A new Sheetz location is planned at the southwest corner of M-59 and Milford Road, and two new national chain eateries are under construction right across the street on the intersection’s northwest side.
The Sheetz project brings new life to the former Highland Lumber property, which township officials say has sat vacant for more than 20 years at the gateway to the township’s historic downtown.
“The blight is gone,” Highland Township Downtown Development Authority Director Melissa Dashevich said. “It’s been sitting there on our doorstep for years, so it’s good to see it developed.”
Built in 1946, the 14,000-square-foot building was marketed by Realty.com at $599,000.
Township Supervisor Rick Hamill said the redevelopment is an important step in township revitalization.
“For many years, this corner has been one of the community’s most visible reminders of a property waiting for a new chapter,” Hamill said in a statement. “Many residents are simply happy to see the old lumber yard finally replaced with a quality development.
“It’s exciting to see a site that has remained dormant for so many years transformed into an investment that will enhance the character of the corridor and create a welcoming first impression for residents and visitors alike.”
Like so many other recent Michigan Sheetz projects, discussion on the topic is rampant on local social media pages, with many expressing excitement for the addition to the township and others lamenting perceived impacts on traffic, nearby businesses and other issues.
Sheetz aims at $500 million Michigan growth
For the Pennsylvania-based Sheetz, the project represents one more piece of its expansion across southeast Michigan.
Known for its 24-hour stores, made-to-order food and fuel service, the company operates more than 830 locations across seven states.
In February, Sheetz announced a $500 million plan to open 14 stores across southeast Michigan in 2026. The Highland Township location was not on that list, likely indicating a 2027 or later opening date.
On July 14, the company will open its second Oakland County location in Orion Township.
Sheetz project brings other benefits to Highland Township
In a social media post, the township said Sheetz worked with the planners to give the building a different look than its other stores so it better fits the style of the surrounding area.
The project will also preserve a piece of the property’s history. Stone from the historic house on the site will be saved and reused in the new entrance and monument signs, the township said.
The development includes several other improvements, as well, including extending a public water line to Highland Elementary School, adding new fire hydrants and installing a new gateway sign for the Historic Highland Station.
Dunkin’ and Jimmy John’s coming, too
Across Milford Road, redevelopment is also moving ahead at 140 W. Highland Road.
The former bank building is being replaced for a Dunkin’ and Jimmy John’s, the township said on its social media. The project is currently under construction.
Hamill said the Sheetz project will improve the entrance to downtown by adding more green space along M-59 and returning the property to its original use as a gas station – before the lumber yard moved in.
The investment, he noted, along with the new Dunkin’ and Jimmy John’s and a recent renovation by Michigan Legacy Credit Union, reflects growing private investment in the area that could encourage additional redevelopment.
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