New businesses are steps closer to locating in Dawson County.

David McKee, planning and zoning director for Dawson County, said RaceTrac Gas has submitted building and civil plans for a new station along Ga. 400 and is now bidding out the project.

According to submitted plans, the 12-pump station and accompanying store would sit on 1 acre at the corner of the highway and Whitmire Drive.

McKee did not have an anticipated beginning date for construction of the station, although earth movers have been on the property for several weeks.

RaceTrac was among a group of possible businesses interested in locating to Dawson County once the county eliminated impact fees last year. Impact fees are fees paid by developers to offset the cost of services impacted by the developments.

The Dawson County Board of Commissioners voted last summer to suspend the fees for one year in an effort to stimulate the economy.

Also in the group was the Krystal Corporation, which has plans to construct a restaurant near CVS on Hwy. 53. McKee said Krsytal has also submitted site plans that have been approved to move forward.

“Representatives with Krystal said they were waiting for the new year to move forward,” said McKee.

Several new tenants have also submitted plans to open shop at North Georgia Premium Outlets, including Hanes, which has submitted plans for a 12,000 square foot superstore.

Levis and True Religion Jeans also have plans for outlet stores at the mall, McKee said.