Planning Commission backs Graduate East Lansing rooftop expansion, recommends council approval

The East Lansing Planning Commission voted unanimously July 9 to recommend City Council approve a special‑use permit request from the Graduate East Lansing to expand rooftop dining and alcohol service at 133 Evergreen Ave.

The application seeks a private dining room and enlargement of the rooftop terrace along with screening for rooftop mechanical equipment. Planning staff told the commission the request would increase rooftop occupancy from the currently approved 96 persons to a total occupancy of 268 (combined inside and outside, including standing room); the applicant and staff presented a reduced recommended cap of 260 patrons as part of the motion.

Planning staff summarized the request as a narrow amendment to the original rooftop special use, focused on alcohol service and increased patron capacity rather than broader building changes. "The request is to add a private dining area and expand the rooftop deck with alcohol service," staff said. The hotel was approved in…