Committee tables proposed zoning amendment to limit drive-throughs in University Commercial District

A proposed amendment to the city's zoning code that would refine restrictions on drive-through restaurants in the University Commercial District was presented to the Tuscaloosa Projects Committee and tabled for further review.

Planning staff said the city's recent zoning code update (implemented Jan. 1) produced more stringent drive-through restrictions than intended in parts of the University Commercial District. The proposed amendments would keep pedestrian-heavy areas such as downtown and the University Strip protected from drive-throughs while allowing drive-through restaurants in portions of the University Commercial District that are more auto-oriented.

Staff walked committee members through a one-page redline map showing specific boundary exceptions where drive-throughs would remain permitted, citing areas near Stillman Boulevard, Fifteenth Street and other auto-oriented corridors. Staff identified several existing fast-food and coffee locations that the amendment would not affect, including McDonald's, Dunkin', Jimmy John's, Taco Bell (adjacent), Jack's, Arby's, Nuke's and Starbucks; staff also noted other nearby businesses such as Druid City Brewing Company. Committee members asked for additional amplification and context before voting.

Councilor Zack (identified in the meeting transcript) moved to table the amendment until the next Projects Committee meeting; the motion was seconded and carried by voice vote. The transcript does not include a roll-call tally. Staff said printed copies of the proposed amendment and maps are available for members who need them.