Memphis Gas Station Filed Renovation Plans
The former Exxon site at 3487 Poplar Ave. will feature electric vehicle charging and solar power.
Updated on Oct. 2, 2026 in Electric Vehicles
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Developers filed a building amendment permit on Sept. 1, 2026, for a $1.16 million renovation of a vacant gas station in Memphis. The site at 3487 Poplar Ave. has remained unused since a fire occurred in January 2024.
Why it matters
This project aims to revitalize a long-vacant corner by integrating modern energy infrastructure into the property. The addition of solar panels and charging stations signals a shift in utility for the former Exxon site.
The renovation project is estimated to cost $1.16 million at the 3487 Poplar Ave. site. The planned development includes the installation of solar panels and electric vehicle charging stations.
The players
Memphis and Shelby County Division of Planning and Development
This local agency is responsible for overseeing land use, zoning, and construction permitting within the region.
The details
The Memphis and Shelby County Division of Planning and Development received the amendment after previous permit extensions were granted in late 2025. The site requires extensive reconstruction work to address damage caused by a fire that forced the station to close in early 2024.
Timeline
January 2024: A fire caused the gas station site to become vacant.
December 2025: The project received an initial building permit extension.
Sept. 1, 2026: Developers filed the building amendment construction permit.
Sept. 7, 2026: Construction was expected to begin at the site.
Sept. 11, 2026: The building permit extension for the project expired.
Roadmap
This development follows a growing trend where traditional fuel retailers are retrofitting locations to host electric vehicle charging infrastructure. It reflects a wider industry shift to accommodate the expanding electric vehicle market by leveraging existing commercial real estate.
Drivers in Memphis will gain access to new electric vehicle charging stations located at a high-traffic area on Poplar Avenue. This project may reduce the amount of time residents spend searching for reliable charging options near the city center.
The takeaway
The transformation of this site demonstrates how aging infrastructure is increasingly being updated to meet modern energy demands. Local property owners continue to find value in legacy fuel locations by incorporating sustainable power features.
Further reading
Learn more about the infrastructure supporting regional transit in our Electric Vehicles section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by The Commercial Appeal.
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Should your local government prioritize the rapid redevelopment of long-vacant commercial properties in your area?
