The Jasper City Planning Commission on Nov. 25 recommended that the City Council approve a special-use permit allowing a drive-through restaurant in the Gateway planned-unit development at 319 Mountain Boulevard South.

David Terry of Gateway Commercial LLC is the applicant. Planning staff presented the site plan and recommended approval subject to conditions intended to reduce incompatibilities with adjacent uses, particularly residential and assisted-living properties near the site.

Staff described the proposed layout: the drive-through would wrap the southwest corner of the building, with access from the north or west side of the property and an expected queue capacity of about six cars. Conditions recommended by staff include limiting hours of operation to 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily; providing at least 40 feet of vehicle stacking between the drive-through entry and the order point; mitigating site lighting to prevent light trespass onto neighboring properties; ensuring speakers are not audible from nearby residences; and requiring separate sign permits before installation.

Commissioners asked whether a bypass lane would be required; staff said the draft approval does not require a bypass lane and that any reference to a bypass in the meeting packet was a presentation error. Commissioners also discussed pedestrian crossings, staff site-plan review, and the need for an awning at the pickup window.

The commission moved, seconded and voted to recommend approval with the listed conditions. The recommendation will be forwarded to the City Council for final action.