Grapevine gossip has some in Lexington upset about a new convenience store.

A Murphy USA gas station will soon open at one of the busiest intersections in town.

It will take over the former Rite Aid lot 500 W. Main Street.

The major complaint seems to be on traffic flow disruptions.

Some are blaming the town for springing the construction news on the public.

Laurin Barnes, communications manager for the Town of Lexington, says this isn’t so.

The corner has been zoned as General Commercial for many years, going back to the time when Hite’s Restaurant occupied the spot.

Developers can put anything from a zoo to a cemetery there as long as they follow all zoning laws and requirements.

The town went to great lengths to solicit input from the community using the town newsletter, social media and ads in the Chronicle, Barnes said.

Additionally, 4 public meetings were held by the Zoning Commission before granting approval for the Murphy gas station.

Barnes said a total of 8 community members gave their input at the meetings.

Murphy is being required to make significant safety improvements to the site.

Many businesses around Flight Deck Plaza report being happy to have another place to buy snacks, beverages, supplies and food.

This is a developing story. Stay tuned for updates.