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Planning commission recommends council allow 1109 Oakland Ave W to reduce green space to 11%
Summary
The Austin City Planning Commission voted to recommend city council approve a variance allowing 1109 Oakland Avenue W to reduce required green space from 20% to 11% to accommodate additional parking and a revised drive‑thru; the recommendation is contingent on the amended site layout and will be considered by council on June 16.
The Austin City Planning Commission recommended the City Council approve a variance that would lower the green‑space requirement at 1109 Oakland Avenue W from 20% to 11%, enabling additional parking and a redesigned drive‑thru. Planning staff told commissioners existing green space measured about 18% and that the applicant’s amended site plan would leave roughly 11% green area.
Applicant representative Sam Yuing described the operational changes behind the request: “Our plan is to have them stop at the two black rectangles there. There would be a speaker box where they would interact with a pharmacy cashier. The cashier would say, ‘Okay, yep, prescription’s ready. Pull through into the drive‑thru lane,’ or ‘No, it’s not ready,’” he said, explaining the proposed queuing and a two‑lane drive‑thru intended to reduce backups onto Oakland Avenue.
Commissioners questioned traffic impacts, signage and public notice. Staff reported no responses from the variance mailing. Commissioners sought clarification on the remaining landscaping; staff said the residual green space could be simple turf and plantings so long as it was not paved.
Commissioner Mayor moved to recommend council approve the amended plan with the additional parking spot; Commissioner Bartley seconded. The motion passed by voice vote. The planning commission’s action is a recommendation; the final decision will be made by the City Council at its hearing on June 16.
If the council approves the variance, the applicant will be able to implement the amended parking layout subject to any city permits and the usual building‑permit requirements for drive‑thru modifications and site work.
