What’s happening with that old gas station on Auburn Blvd?

By Mike Hazlip—
New activity can be seen at a long-vacant gas station in Citrus Heights, with excavation and permit activity occurring in recent months.

Construction fencing along with several mounds of excavated dirt and asphalt can be seen at the site, located at 8244 Auburn Blvd. Slow progress at the high-visibility location has prompted questions from residents about what’s going on.

In an email Monday, City Economic Development and Community Engagement Director Meghan Huber told The Sentinel that a building permit for remodel of the gas station’s convenience store was filed in November.

Over the past year, boards on the convenience store’s windows and doors have been removed, and the exterior of the building has been painted white. Gas station pumps appear to have also been pulled up.

The location’s owner, Moe Alnaggar did not return a request for comment. Alnaggar previously told The Sentinel he was waiting on Sacramento County Environmental Management Department and the Health Department for approval. He said the county asked for adjustments to the plans that were initially submitted Oct. 2021.

Alnaggar told The Sentinel last year that he was eager to make progress on the project, citing problems with homelessness, drug use, and vandalism at the site.

The property has long-been a source of complaints from residents for bringing a blighted appearance to the high-traffic boulevard. Alnaggar said previously that he understands resident’s concern about the property and expressed hope to open a new gas station once the required plans and permits were approved.

A Jan. 27 report by The Sentinel shows plans for the site were pending approval. The property was listed for sale before being taken off the market in July 2021.