Council Greenlights Gas Station Convenience Store Overhaul After Years-Long Pause

The Orinda City Council unanimously revived a long-stalled zoning change that will allow larger convenience markets at gas stations, clearing the path for Chevron to modernize its Orinda Way location with an expanded store, EV charging, and a new public creekside observation deck.

• Ordinance 2506 introduced 5–0, updating rules for convenience markets at service stations after extensive debate on pedestrian access, safety, and fresh food.

• Chevron pledges cash donation equivalent to former parking fee and commits to robust security protocols, ID scanning, and 24/7 public restrooms.

• City announces $500,000 federal grant for Moraga Way bike, pedestrian, and evacuation safety improvements.

• OrindaReady.com launches with LADRA wildfire evacuation modeling tool for residents.

• 2026 committee and liaison assignments approved unanimously.

After sitting dormant for years, the proposed Chevron convenience store on Orinda Way took a major step forward as the Council unanimously introduced Ordinance 2506, which updates zoning rules to allow larger convenience markets at service stations through a use permit process.