Planning commission recommends B2 rezoning for Jack's restaurant on Highway 82 bypass

On April 16, 2026, the Prattville Planning Commission voted to recommend rezoning approximately 2.35 acres at 326 Highway 82 Bypass East from B1 (neighborhood business) to B2 (general business) to accommodate a Jack's restaurant proposed by petitioner James C. Avery.

Staff recommended approval, citing consistency with the future land use map's mixed-use residential designation, the site's frontage on the bypass and adjacency to B2 zoning to the south. During the public hearing, Jim Avery, representing Jack's Restaurants, said the company plans an approximately 3,600-square-foot restaurant with 68 seats and about 40 parking spaces. "It's an approximate $3 million investment that Jack's will be making in the community," Avery said, adding the project would create jobs and generate sales and property tax.

Neighbors and local leaders spoke and staff noted a mix of historic zoning changes in the area. Terry Stanfield recounted that parts of the bypass were B2 in the past and asked staff to double-check split zoning on adjacent parcels. Pastor Sean Meeks of First Pentecostal Church said he did not oppose the project and welcomed more services on the west side of town.

After discussion and a motion, the commission voted by hand-raise and the motion carried; the transcript records the outcome as "Motion carries." The recommendation will move forward to the appropriate next step in the city's review process.