City Council approves variance for Project Renewal at 510 Warren Street

The Davenport City Zoning Board of Adjustment convened on January 23, 2025, to discuss several key zoning requests, including a significant hardship variance for Project Renewal and a transparency variance for a new Taco Bell restaurant.

The meeting began with the approval of a special use permit (SU 24-06) for an event space accommodating 200 people. Board members expressed confidence in the feasibility of parking for the proposed event, which was unanimously approved without additional conditions.

The board then turned its attention to a hardship variance request from Project Renewal, a nonprofit organization seeking to demolish and rebuild its facility at 510 Warren Street. The proposal involves encroaching on the required corner side yard setback, reducing it from 15 feet to 8.9 feet to align with the existing building footprint. The organization currently operates out of a house that has been deemed structurally unsound, prompting the need for a new building. The board received support from local residents, with six signatures backing the project. After a brief discussion, the board approved the variance, emphasizing the importance of encouraging development in the area.

The final item on the agenda was a request from Border Foods for a Taco Bell restaurant at 1736 West Kimberly Road. The proposal included a variance for building transparency, as the design only meets 20% transparency on the north facade, while the code requires 50%. The applicant argued that the building's layout, which includes a drive-thru and service area, made it challenging to meet the transparency requirement. The board acknowledged the unique circumstances of the site and recommended approval of the variance, contingent upon meeting specified transparency conditions.

Overall, the meeting highlighted the board's commitment to supporting local development while balancing community needs and zoning regulations. The approved projects are expected to enhance the neighborhood and provide valuable services to residents.