Mickey’s, Dunkin’ fuel a reshaped Shelby corridor
By David Jacobs
The towering and newly opened Mickey’s and Dunkin’ facility is transforming economic development and commerce along Shelby's State Route 39 gateway.
While motorists have watched the former Skarl Motors site transform into a major commercial site, leaders gathered May 5 not just to mark its completion but also to highlight its significance to Shelby and the wider region.
PHOTO GALLERY: Mickey’s and Dunkin' open in Shelby
Jessica Gribben, Shelby’s economic development manager, said the project had drawn public attention from the earliest days of construction.
“We're so excited about the investment," she said. "It has been talked about since you started: 'What's it going to look like? Why is it so tall? It's amazing. Is that giant moose really going on it?' Yes, it is."
The Mickey’s and Dunkin’ site is not a traditional gas station/convenience store/donut shop.
“It’s just a cool story to see how this has developed,” said Shelby Mayor Steve Schag, standing beside Dan Coles, president of the Coles Group based in Milan, Ohio.
“We say oftentimes it's all about relationships and that's what you're seeing here today," Schag said. "This is a result of relationships, and we've certainly cherished the relationship we have with Mr. Dan Coles, his family, and the Coles Group.”
Schag described grand openings as always being rooted in investment.
“As I was preparing for this day, three words came to mind,” Schag said. “Investment, immensity and impact.”
"So on behalf of all the citizens of Shelby, I want to express my sincere gratitude to Mickey’s stores and Dunkin’ Donuts for the huge financial investment made here in the city of Shelby,” he continued.
“We feel extremely blessed to be the home of this impressive project, and we're grateful that in that whole strategic planning, they chose this place to make this investment," Schag said. "I'm sure there are dozens of mayors that would love to be in the position I am today cutting a red ribbon in front of this impressive structure, celebrating the launching of these notable businesses.”
The former Skarl Motors site had long been vacant and under discussion for redevelopment. Leaders describe the completed structure as not just a commercial upgrade but a cornerstone for growth along Route 39/Mansfield Avenue, which connects Shelby to the nearby cities of Mansfield and Ontario.
Schag noted the structure's size on a large footprint that provides a place for trucks to refuel, as well.
"You cannot help but think of the word immensity," he said. "One year ago, it was almost impossible to envision the colossal scope of this project."
As the site began to take shape, the mayor said, Shelby leaders began to "realize this was truly going to be a one-of-a-kind location" in north central Ohio.
"I can't even begin to imagine how many yards of concrete have been poured on this site," he said.
The building features a glass exterior, with a Mickey the Moose display mounted atop the covering over the outdoor fueling area.
"One thing for sure, no one will be able to miss Mickey’s when they come through the city of Shelby," Schag said.
He expects the Mickey's/Dunkin' investment will be felt in the Shelby region of Richland County for decades to come.
“We're very grateful for the traffic that will be coming in and for the folks that will be served here, and the impact that will have on the families in our area in a very positive way," he said.
"I know the management teams of both of these businesses want this to be more than just about fuel and food," Schag said later. "This will be a place where you'll feel the essence of a welcoming community."
Richland Area Chamber and Economic Development representative Jennifer Wagner focused on the customer-facing experience.
“Wow, this place is impressive,” she said. “We've driven by it many, many times, but it's not until you walk in that you feel the full experience of coming to Mickey’s."
"It's not really just a fueling destination to fuel your vehicle, it's a fueling destination to fuel your day because there's so much here," she said. "Coffee, donuts, their deli, everything that they offer. So we are so grateful for their investments, and we welcome you to the neighborhood of Richland County.”
State Rep. Marilyn John, who served as Shelby mayor from 2010-2014, reflected on her familiarity with the site, living nearby. She noted that her husband had been following the construction progress closely for months.
Rep. John noted that when she was mayor, the city was looking at future use of the site once Skarl Motors -- which dated back to 1967 -- had ended its long run in Shelby.
"So I'm so thankful to the mayor and you (developer) for working together," Rep. John said. "Wow, really tall," she said of the Mickey's/Dunkin' structure.
Richland County Commissioner Cliff Mears said: “This is overwhelming and transformational for Shelby."
Reporter David Jacobs can be reached at davidjacobs@shelbynewsreporter.com
