Braintree Planning Board approves Chipotle replacement for Burger King at Pearl Street

Braintree's Planning Board has approved a significant redevelopment project that will replace the long-standing Burger King with a new Chipotle restaurant. The new establishment will occupy a smaller footprint of 2,400 square feet, compared to the previous 3,082 square foot building. This decision reflects a shift in market demand towards fast food options, as the board also modified the existing retail building to accommodate this change.

The project includes a minor modification to the parking requirements, necessitated by the conversion from retail to restaurant use. The Chipotle site will now require a total of 27 parking spaces, with an additional 8 spaces being allocated from the adjacent Pearl Plaza to meet zoning compliance. This adjustment is crucial as the site was originally approved for retail use, which had different parking needs.

During the public hearing, community members expressed concerns about the aesthetics of the new construction and the safety of pedestrian access from nearby parking areas, such as the Shaw's supermarket lot. The Chipotle representative clarified that while there will be no traditional drive-thru, a pickup window will facilitate online orders, and the restaurant will feature approximately 40 seats for dine-in customers.

Planning Board members acknowledged the importance of ensuring safe passage for customers who may park in adjacent lots. They emphasized the need for clear signage and walkways to enhance safety for pedestrians accessing the new restaurant.

This redevelopment is expected to revitalize the area, replacing an outdated building with a modern dining option that aligns with current consumer preferences. The Planning Board's decision marks a step forward in adapting Braintree's commercial landscape to meet the evolving needs of its residents.