The corridor of Washtenaw Avenue between US-23 and Stadium Boulevard in Ann Arbor is seeing plenty of business openings and activity this month.

Neighbors in the area of Arbor Hills Crossing have received notice to attend a meeting Wednesday to discuss the redevelopment of the large abandoned area at Washtenaw and Platt Road. Many residents are hopeful that the mixed-use project will make it beyond the planning stage and see some development.

Laurie Krauth is a psychotherapist who lives and works in the neighborhood. She told AnnArbor.com that she loves to see new developments come to the city.

“I am hoping to see small local businesses and nonprofits to patronize,” she said.

Krauth added that she's hopeful that the new shopping area can be laid out so that there aren't unmanageable corridors in terms of parking and driving.

Satchel's BBQ owner Hugh Morgan shows off his barbecue smoker.

Courtesy of Satchel's BBQ

Satchel’s BBQ — Hugh Morgan's restaurant dream opened officially on Valentine’s Day, and will celebrate its grand opening Friday. Morgan grew up in Alabama and is a self-described “hillbilly by nature" who enjoys cooking barbecue enough to pursue it as a business. The snow-covered smoker in the parking lot is already starting to thaw, luring passers-by into the restaurant, 3035 Washtenaw Ave. Satchel’s offers “southern-style bbq at a good value with courteous service.” The menu promises pulled pork, brisket, chicken and ribs, with a variety of sides.

The newly reopened Marathon station on Washtenaw Avenue in Ann Arbor.

Angela Smith | For AnnArbor.com

Marathon Gas Station — Further east on Washtenaw, a freshly remodeled gas station has also reopened. Customers at the Marathon, 3555 Washtenaw Ave., will notice a new convenience store that features a large Michigan football mural, and plenty of tailgate-friendly snacks. The renovated station also offers E85 "flex fuel," a blend of 85 percent ethanol.

Diva Nails — Behind the new Marathon station in Arborland Mall, a nail salon has moved in along the same strip as Starbucks and Beauty First. Diva Nails was slated to open Sunday, but construction was still under way Tuesday. The salon plans to offer full nail services along with pedicures and waxing.