Council approves rooftop restaurant addition at 101 North Locust after debate over access and compatibility
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Summary
After public testimony both for and against the plan, the Denton City Council approved a certificate of design consistency for a two‑story rooftop restaurant addition at 101 North Locust by a 4–1 vote. Supporters emphasized economic benefits; opponents raised parking, accessibility and shared-structure concerns.
The Denton City Council on March 2 approved a certificate of design consistency for a rooftop restaurant and mezzanine addition at 101 North Locust Street — a Wells Fargo-era structure on the southeast corner of the Denton Square — following a lengthy public hearing and council discussion.
Developer Jonathan King, who described the rooftop concept as a long-held vision, told the council the structure can support a mezzanine and elevator access and that the two-level layout is necessary for the project’s business model. "I've had this in my mind... since 2013," King said, explaining structural testing and the proposed elevator access that would allow patrons to enter the restaurant directly.
Architect Boris Munoz said the proposal aims to complement Denton's historic fabric with contemporary materials and street-level improvements such as a green wall wrap. "Our intent is to complement Denton's historic fabric while enhancing the existing Wells Fargo structure with a thoughtful contemporary addition," Munoz said.
Supporters at the public hearing — including downtown business owners and residents — said the project would increase foot traffic, add dining capacity and strengthen the evening economy. James Van Pelt told the council the addition would "bring people in" and help surrounding small businesses. Several residents cited the need for more dining options during high‑traffic events on the square.
Opponents focused on compatibility, shared-building systems and parking. Bobbi Baldwin warned that a 300‑seat restaurant could strain parking and shared elevators and noted the proposed addition would enclose some existing internal windows and cover exterior marble features. "Will those elevators be accepting deliveries? Will they be taking trash to and fro from the restaurant?" Baldwin asked, noting the potential impact on tenants that occupy other floors of the combined structure.
Council members asked staff and the applicants detailed code and historic questions, including how 'stories' are defined in the Denton Square District and whether the addition would affect future historic designations or tax-credit eligibility. Historic Preservation Officer Cameron Robertson said the proposed height and facade materials comply with Denton Square code standards and that the Secretary of Interior standards encourage differentiation between new and old.
Councilmember Joe Holland moved approval; Councilmember Jester seconded. The motion passed 4–1 with Councilmember Beck indicating opposition. The council did not attach additional conditions on record during the vote; staff will proceed with the permitting and follow-up processes required under local development codes.
The approval allows the applicants to move forward with design and permitting steps; if the owners pursue state or federal historic designation in the future, Robertson said that process could affect eligibility for tax credits and would involve additional review and approvals.
