The Aggieville Starbucks location could undergo some changes in the near future.
The Manhattan Urban Planning Board met last Thursday, and heard a renovation proposal aimed at the drive thru, as explained by Assistant Director of Community Development John Adam.
Exterior changes would include a rebuilt sidewalk, the addition of a pergola, or shade structure, over the outdoor seating, moving of the menu board and moving the service window. The latter two items would be done to improve drive thru efficiency, according to a memo submitted by the Manhattan Community Development Department.
The pickup window would move forward by a vehicle length, increasing the stack size in the drive through. Starbucks Real Estate Manager Jessica Vantrease explains the effect this would have.
It’s not likely the modification would do much to improve some of the congestion in the area, but would offer some improvement.
During last week’s meeting, board member Phil Anderson asked if any signage could be posted to warn customers not to park along Bluemont if the drive thru backs up in the drive thru. Adam says they don’t have the authority to do that on public right of way and says most would still likely ignore any signage.
The planning board approved the motion 6-0, sending on to the Manhattan City Commission for further consideration.
