City Planning Commission reviews special exception for Chipotle drive-through at Sturgis Corner

Iowa City is set to welcome a new dining option as the Iowa City Board of Adjustment approved a special exception for a drive-through facility at 21 Sturgis Corner Drive during their meeting on February 20, 2025. This decision allows the existing Los Amigos restaurant to be replaced with a new Chipotle establishment, which will feature a drive-through lane designed specifically for online order pickups.

The proposed Chipotle will occupy approximately 2,300 square feet and accommodate up to 49 patrons. The drive-through lane will not include an order board, streamlining the process for customers who place their orders via the Chipotle app or website. This innovative format aims to enhance convenience for diners while maintaining the community commercial zoning of the area.

As part of the approval process, the city has mandated a traffic impact study to assess the potential effects of the new facility on local traffic patterns. This step underscores the Board's commitment to ensuring that the development aligns with community needs and infrastructure capabilities.

The approval of this special exception marks a significant step in the ongoing development of the Sturgis Corner area, which is strategically located near Highway 6 East and the Iowa River. With no residential zones nearby, the site is well-suited for commercial use, promising to bring new dining options to the community while supporting local economic growth.

As the project moves forward, residents can anticipate the arrival of this new dining establishment, which is expected to enhance the local food scene and provide a modern, efficient service model for customers.