To the Editor:

A zoning change to allow a 24-hour gas station at the northwest corner of Route 31 and Pearl Street should not be approved by the McHenry City Council. Traffic on Pearl Street will increase, and Pearl Street is used to get to Route 31 (in front of St. Mary’s Church) from Green Street. Pearl Street is a two-lane street. There are no dedicated right- or left-turn lanes.

The addition of a 24-hour gas station will affect the residential neighborhood as the proposed property is next to several houses Lighting will be on at night. Noise will be an issue. Pedestrian traffic will be affected. There are several historic houses in the neighboring area. Property values will be negatively affected.