The big empty lot at the corner of Rowlett Rd and Chiesa Rd has had equipment on it for the last two weeks. Grading, surveying stakes, the works. Does anyone know what is going in there?
What I can see:
- The lot is roughly 3-4 acres
- Grading and clearing completed, the old scrub brush and trees are gone
- Surveying stakes with orange flags at regular intervals — suggests a commercial layout, not residential
- No sign posted with developer or project name (which is unusual for a commercial project)
- A porta-potty appeared this week, which means actual construction is starting
What I have heard (unconfirmed):
- One neighbor said she heard it was going to be a medical office complex
- Another neighbor said he heard it was a gas station and convenience store
- The Rowlett city planning portal shows a permit application for the address but the project description is just "commercial development" with no detail
Why this matters: This corner is at the intersection of two major Rowlett roads. Whatever goes here will be visible and accessible. If it is a medical complex, that is useful — Rowlett is underserved on healthcare, with most residents driving to Garland or Rockwall for specialist appointments. If it is another gas station, that is disappointing — we have plenty.
How to find out for real:
- Rowlett city planning department: 972-412-6100
- The city planning commission meeting agendas are posted online — the project would have gone through zoning review
- If anyone attends the planning commission meetings, this would have been discussed
Drop what you know below. The speculation on the Rowlett Facebook group is all over the place and I want actual information.
I go to the planning commission meetings because I am that person. This project was discussed two months ago. It was approved as a medical and professional office development. Two buildings, shared parking lot. No gas station.