Moab Planning Commission approves special parking exception for Expedition 88 restaurant

The City of Moab Planning Commission convened on May 8, 2025, to discuss several key agenda items, primarily focusing on a proposed eating establishment at the Radcliffe Hotel and associated parking requirements.

The meeting began with a presentation regarding the establishment of an eating establishment use at 471 South Main, owned by Red Cliff Hotel LLC, and the request for eight off-site parking spaces for an adjacent parcel at 481 South Main, owned by Moab Desert Plaza LLC. Both properties are under the ownership of Rob Radcliffe. The proposed restaurant, Expedition 88, aims to transition from an amenity use to a full-service dining option, which necessitates additional parking due to its size of 1,541 square feet.

In 2023, the Planning Commission had previously approved a shared parking agreement for the Radcliffe Hotel, but the current proposal seeks a special parking exception instead. The team has submitted all necessary materials for review, including a site plan and a written agreement between the two property owners. The commission discussed the implications of this request, noting that the restaurant's parking needs would be met through the off-site agreement rather than shared parking.

Commission members expressed support for the proposal, highlighting the importance of providing adequate parking for the restaurant. Concerns were raised about the potential impact of future tenants in the adjacent property, which is outlined in yellow on the site plan. The commission clarified that the eight parking spaces would be reserved specifically for the restaurant, ensuring that any future developments on the adjacent property would need to account for their own parking requirements.

The meeting concluded with a consensus on the necessity of the off-site parking agreement, with members appreciating the proactive approach to addressing parking needs for the new restaurant. The commission's approval of the special parking exception will allow the establishment to move forward, contributing to the local dining scene while ensuring that parking demands are adequately met.