A controversial proposal for a Waffle House on Main Street in historic downtown Woodstock has cleared the Planning Commission, with conditions, and is heading for a July 25 City Council meeting.
Commissioners voted 5-0 on Thursday in favor of the restaurant proposal for 8558 Main, at Towne Lake Parkway. The Hot Dog Heaven now in that spot would be razed and replaced by a Waffle House said to look like none other – with brick siding to resemble an early 20th Century mercantile building, and without the big, yellow, free-standing sign.
Among the conditions of the approval: Waffle House must secure a long-term parking agreement for at least 12 shared spaces or pay the city $14,000 for every space it falls short; provide for a 14-foot interior ceiling height; provide a bicycle rank conforming to downtown specifications; not place stickers, signs or decals in the windows; and not load or unload off Main or Towne Lake.
More than 1,000 people signed a Change.org petition opposed to the proposal. Waffle House, for its part, has said it would provide 20 to 30 quality jobs, generate tax revenues for the city, offer a less expensive dining option than other downtown restaurants, and answer the need locally for breakfast items 24 hours a day.
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