Wawa Breaks Ground on New State College Location

The convenience retailer plans to bring 35 jobs to the area as it begins construction on West Aaron Drive.

Updated on Oct. 20, 2026 in Philanthropy

Isometric editorial illustration of an excavator on a construction site with mounds of earth, representing regional business development. — Wawa has officially begun construction on its new State College location on West Aaron Drive, a project expected to create 35 jobs. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Wawa officially broke ground on a new store located off North Atherton Street at the site of a former car dealership. The facility is expected to bring 35 jobs to State College when it opens by the end of 2027.

Why it matters

The project represents a significant step in Wawa’s plan to expand its regional operations in Central Pennsylvania. As part of its community commitment, the company has pledged donations to two local organizations to mark the start of construction.

The Wawa Foundation donated $2,500 each to the Central Pennsylvania Food Bank and Penn State's THON. The company aims to establish up to 10 store sites in the State College area over the next five years.

The players

Wawa

Wawa is a convenience retail chain known for its food service offerings and its network of stores across several states.

The Wawa Foundation

The Wawa Foundation is the philanthropic arm of the convenience retailer that focuses on supporting community-based organizations.

Central Pennsylvania Food Bank

The Central Pennsylvania Food Bank is a non-profit organization dedicated to fighting hunger by providing food resources to individuals in the region.

THON

THON is a Penn State University student-run philanthropy that raises money and awareness to support the fight against pediatric cancer.

The details

The new 24/7 store is being built on West Aaron Drive at the former location of the Sutliff Buick-GMC-Cadillac dealership. This location serves as the flagship effort for the brand's broader expansion strategy in the region.

October 20, 2026: The groundbreaking ceremony took place.
End of 2027: Wawa expects to open the new location.
Next five years: Wawa plans to open up to 10 stores in State College.

Market Landscape

Wawa's entry into State College follows the pattern set by the company's regional expansion agenda to capture more market share in college towns. This move positions the brand to compete more directly with other convenience retailers currently operating in the central part of the state.

Residents can expect the new 24/7 store to offer additional employment opportunities and expanded shopping access by late 2027. The project also directs corporate funds toward local organizations that provide support to the State College community.

The takeaway

Wawa's development on West Aaron Drive signifies a major infrastructure investment in the State College area. Residents should look forward to the project as a catalyst for local job creation over the coming year.