Circle K cancels plan for downtown Phoenix store

PHOENIX, AZ - People living in a downtown Phoenix neighborhood are claiming victory after Circle K abandoned its plans for a gas station at a busy intersection.

Circle K wanted to build a 16-pump gas station at the southeast corner of 7th Street and Roosevelt.

Stacey Champion and other neighbors immediately came out opposed to the project.

"We just felt collectively it wasn't the right project for this location," said Champion.

Champion and others in the surrounding community feared the new Circle K would not only bring an increase of traffic to their neighborhood, but crime as well.

Together they let the company and the city know their concerns.

"I think collectively we've come together to be a very strong voice," said Champion.

Circle K apparently heard that voice loud and clear.

Just hours before a vote by the Phoenix City Council Wednesday night, the company withdrew its application for a liquor license.

A spokesperson tells ABC15, Circle K no longer has plans to build at the 7th Street and Roosevelt location.

"I really think it was a business decision for the company to stay where they are at the moment," said Mario Diaz, a government relations consultant for Circle K.

Regardless of the reason, Champion considers it a victory for her and others involved in the grass roots effort.

She hopes it sends a message to other companies considering a similar decision.

"We live downtown, we live in the city because we like things that are unique," said Champion. "We're not fans of big box stores and chains and that sort of thing."

In the end, that sentiment won out. Score one for the little guy.