News Summary
The opening of The Station, a new liquor store in Memphis, is causing controversy due to its proximity to Woodland Presbyterian Church and School. While owner Ethan Edwards invested $1 million in the establishment, local stakeholders, including the church and neighboring liquor store owners, have expressed deep concerns about its potential impact on the family-oriented neighborhood. This situation raises questions about safety, community values, and the balance between business growth and family integrity. The community’s response highlights ongoing discussions about commercial development in sensitive areas.
Memphis Community Stirs Over New Liquor Store Opening
The impending arrival of The Station, a new liquor store located at 870 S. White Station Road in Memphis, is stirring concern among community members due to its proximity to Woodland Presbyterian Church and School, located just 1,500 feet away. Owner Ethan Edwards has invested $1 million into this 25,000 square foot establishment, which is set to begin operations soon.
The decision to open The Station has elicited vocal opposition from local stakeholders, particularly the church and school administrations, as well as from four other liquor store owners in the vicinity, including representatives from Busterโs Liquors & Wines. These parties have raised alarms about the impact that the liquor store may have on the family-oriented atmosphere of the neighborhood.
Authorities and residents have voiced their concerns regarding the store’s location, as it stands near an educational institution and a religious establishment. The opening of a liquor store within such close proximity to a school has sparked debate regarding safety, responsibility, and community values. Parents and local advocates worry about the influence that alcohol sales may have on children in the area.
Compliance and Community Response
Despite the backlash, Ethan Edwards maintains that he has complied with all existing city ordinances throughout the planning and establishment of The Station. He believes that his business will bring economic benefits to the community, offering a new option for residents looking to purchase liquor.
The situation reflects larger trends in community dynamics, particularly as new businesses open in areas with existing family structures and institutions. Although Edwards’ business decisions follow legal guidelines, the strong reaction from various stakeholders indicates a pushback against developments perceived as harmful to the community fabric.
Background Context
The location formerly housed a Bed Bath & Beyond, and the transition to a liquor store represents a significant shift in the type of commercial activity taking place in the neighborhood. The establishment’s size and scale further amplify the impact that The Station may have on the nearby church and school, which serve many local families.
This unfolding narrative highlights the ongoing discussions surrounding community development, business interests, and the nuances of local governance. The community’s concerns echo broader themes seen in cities across the country, where liquor store openings near schools and places of worship frequently lead to debates over public safety and moral considerations.
The situation continues to evolve, garnering attention from various sectors of the community as stakeholders navigate the balance between business growth and the preservation of family-oriented values in Memphis.
As the opening date for The Station approaches, further dialogue among community members, local authorities, and the store’s ownership may establish a clearer understanding of the implications of having a liquor store in such proximity to sensitive locations. The issue remains part of an ongoing narrative about community interests and the kind of environment desired by residents in Memphis.
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Additional Resources
- Daily Memphian: Community Concerns Over Liquor Store
- Wikipedia: Liquor Store
- Fox 13 Memphis: Suspects on the Run
- Google Search: Liquor Store Impact on Community
- Action News 5: Shooting at Frayser Liquor Store
- Google Scholar: Community Development and Liquor Stores
- Local Memphis: Shooting Leaves Man Dead
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Liquor
- Beverage Dynamics: Buster’s Liquors
- Google News: Memphis Liquor Store Concerns
Author: STAFF HERE MEMPHIS WRITER
The MEMPHIS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREMemphis.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Memphis, Shelby County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the areaโwith deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Beale Street Music Festival, Elvis Week, and Memphis in May International Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Memphis Chamber and the Memphis Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in logistics, healthcare, and music that power the local economy such as FedEx, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, and AutoZone. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBristol.com, HEREChattanooga.com, HEREKnoxville.com, and HERENashville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.
