STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. \u2014 A 7\u2011Eleven convenience store is slated to rise on the long\u2011vacant corner of Forest Avenue and Sharon Avenue in West Brighton, with an anticipated opening in 2027. The store will occupy 386 Forest Avenue, a one-time Capital One branch and, before that, a dry cleaners. A company spokeswoman confirmed the project is moving forward.<\/p>\n
The Irving, Texas\u2011based chain, known worldwide for Slurpees, Big Gulps, and grab\u2011and\u2011go staples, operates roughly 85,000 stores across more than 20 countries. <\/p>\n
Local historian and West Brighton native Phil Straniere recalls earlier uses of the corner, including a doctor\u2019s office run by Dr. Mazur, a pediatrician with HIP, before the property changed hands. Straniere noted that real estate broker Emil Gourian later bought the parcel, demolished the original structure, and built a new office.<\/p>\n
A 1980 Advance report noted that the corner also figured in a state investigation into Emil Gourian, who was then operating Richmond Realty Services at the site. The Department of State found him guilty of improperly withholding portions of home\u2011buyer deposits, revoked his license, and ordered restitution. Three of the four affected couples were ultimately located after the Advance reported on the case.<\/p>\n
Today, the vacant one\u2011story retail building sits on a 10,000-square-foot lot comprising a 3,165-square-foot structure and a 6,835-square-foot parking area. The site is zoned R3X with C1\u20112 and HS overlays. <\/p>\n