No more drive-thrus in downtown Lincoln? City council to vote on ban in revitalization project

Drive-thru restaurants may no longer be allowed in downtown Lincoln after a decision by the city’s planning commission.

In a unanimous vote last week, commissioners adopted a resolution banning any future businesses with drive-thrus from occupying space in the city’s downtown, including restaurants, banks and pharmacies.

“Drive-thru facilities are not an appropriate or compatible land use for the downtown,” the resolution said.

Commissioners said drive-thru businesses weren’t compatible with the small lot spaces in the downtown area, making them likely to cause long lines and traffic jams. Furthermore, they would “detract from the historical fabric of downtown.”

The decision comes as Lincoln attempts to revitalize its downtown, making it more attractive for pedestrians and families. As it stands now, the area lacks restaurants, retail and recreation hubs, according to meeting documents, and there is an overabundance of auto repair shops in the area.

Many buildings in one section of downtown that the city is eyeing for revitalization are currently in “poor condition” or are “underutilized,” the staff report said.

The resolution appeared to have public support, with city staff saying they had not received opposition to the proposal.

The recommendation will now go to the city council for final adoption.

This story was originally published August 24, 2023 at 7:48 AM.