Rutter’s has received its highway occupancy permit needed to install the driveway for its new store across from Geisinger St. Luke’s Hospital in West Brunswick Township, Schuylkill County.

Sean Brown, safety press officer with the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation District 5, which covers Schuylkill, said the permit was approved March 31.

The permit is needed to construct a driveway across the PennDOT right of way.

Rutter’s, which has its headquarters in York County, plans to start construction for the store in late spring.

The store was previously reported to be 8,000 square feet. When built, it will be the first one in the county.

John Bogish, West Brunswick Township secretary-treasurer, said the permit was approved March 30.

“I don’t know when they are going to start. We’re excited that everything is final,” he said.

Residents and motorists can’t fuel up along Route 61 unless they stop at Sheetz in Schuylkill Haven or Wawa in Hamburg.

Sue-Lee Miller, marketing coordinator for The Rutter’s Companies, said previously projects typically take six to eight months for completion.

“We’re currently in the process of determining the contractor. No dates have been set,” she said.

Fourteen gas pumps featuring different grades of gas, including E-15 and ethanol-free gas, which will be Top Tier rated, are planned. Four high-speed diesel fueling lanes will be available. Motorists can buy food and other items at the store. Beer and wine will also be available. Video terminals are planned.