<I>NANCY BUTTERFIELD photo</I><BR>A new $1.7 million convenience store and gas station is nearing completion at the Shoalwater Bay Indian Reservation at Tokeland, which is on State Route 105 in Pacific County west of Raymond.

TOKELAND – A brand-new $1.7 million, six-bay Chevron gas station and convenience store is being constructed across Highway 105 from the Shoalwater Bay Casino and is expected to be in business by Sept. 30.

“This will be the Rolls-Royce of convenience stores,” casino marketing manager Todd Arend said last week. “It’s going to be beautiful and a fantastic addition to the area. Clam diggers will love it.” Arend said the 3,000-square-foot store will include a full kitchen.

The Georgetown Station is a Shoalwater Bay Indian Tribe project and the tribe is the primary contractor. Pete Chadwick is project manager.

After the facility opens Sept. 30, three casino patrons will have the opportunity to win free gas for a year on Oct. 3.

Also in the works for the casino is an expansion of the existing restaurant that will include a new entrance on the south side that will allow children to dine with their families. No one younger than 21 is allowed in the casino now.

“This will be a big boon to families,” he said. “Anything we can provide to our guests is a win-win situation.” The kitchen is expected to be completed by July 1, 2011.