Neighbors oppose new Maverik gas station at Carlisle and I-40

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. – National gas station chain Maverik wants to open a gas station at the intersection of Carlisle Boulevard and Indian School Road near I-40, but some neighbors are rallying against the plan.

The property, previously a Whole Foods, was purchased by Maverik at the end of last year. The company is seeking a permit to add a gas station and convenience store.

Maia Mullen, president of the North Campus Neighborhood Association, said, “I was first shocked, because we have gas stations here.”

Mullen says her fellow neighbors want diverse local businesses, not another gas station.

“We don’t want a monoculture. We want mixed use. We want local businesses,” said Mullen.

Eric Kruger, a board member of the association, believes the proposed gas station primarily targets interstate travelers, not local residents.

“I think that this gas station and the way Maverick is going to intend to use this is to serve the interstate and not the communities,” said Kruger.

Seven surrounding neighborhoods have expressed opposition, citing environmental concerns and potential harm to existing gas stations.

“Another gas station here will put these other gas stations out of business, and these properties will be vacant and subject to blight,” said Kruger.

The community plans to challenge the permit approval process.

“We are hopeful to block the conditional use, but we also are ready to continue fighting this all the way through city council approval,” said Mullen.

Mullen added, “We want to see something stable. We want to see something permanent. We want to see something where we can come in and put our dollars here and support it.”

KOB 4 reached out to Maverik for comment but has not received a response.

The Netherwood Park Neighborhood Association provides updates on its website, where residents can participate in a community survey and sign up for public comment at the upcoming zoning hearing in February. Neighbors also noted that the iconic red arrow at the site is landmarked and must remain.