Oxford Set to Welcome New Shadrachs Coffee Shop with Drive-Thru Service Amid Some Local Concerns

Oxford Welcomes New Shadrachs Coffee Location

Oxford is getting a second Shadrachs Coffee shop, much to the excitement of local coffee lovers. The Oxford Planning Commission recently authorized a special exception for a drive-thru service at the new location. This fresh coffee shop is planned to be built at 2405 South Lamar Blvd., right near the newly opened Oxford Self Storage building, across from the intersection of Harlan Drive.

Drive-Thru Features and Layout

The city’s planning staff is currently reviewing the site plan for the new coffee shop. Drive-thrus are usually only allowed in areas with Traditional Neighborhood Business zoning through special exceptions. At the new site, there are already two existing curb cuts. The coffee company plans to designate the southern curb cut as an exit only. This strategy aims to streamline traffic flow and ensure that incoming vehicles primarily use the northern entrance.

This new configuration allows for significant stacking space with 11 spots in a double lane on the east side, followed by a row of parking. There will also be about six stacking spaces available in a single lane on the west and south sides of the building. According to city planning staff, this arrangement is comparable to what is in place at Shadrachs’ West Jackson location and is considered suitable for managing traffic at the new site.

Concerns from Local Residents

While the coffee shop is welcomed by many, some area residents have expressed concerns. The city received two letters of objection regarding the drive-thru. One resident voiced her worries during the commission meeting, stating that while she was supportive of having a coffee shop nearby, she was apprehensive about the potential of traffic backups resulting from the drive-thru service.

To address these concerns, City Attorney Pope Mallette explained that if the city’s planning staff determines that the stacking queue for the drive-thru is extending beyond the property line and into the public right-of-way, adjustments may need to be made. This could lead to the applicant appearing before the Planning Commission again for reconsideration of the special exception.

Conclusion

The new Shadrachs Coffee location is sure to attract both long-time fans and new customers in Oxford. With its drive-thru service and strategic layout, the coffee shop aims to provide quality drinks while keeping vehicular traffic managed and organized. Community members will be keeping a close eye on the developments, especially those living near the proposed location.

As planning officials continue to evaluate the project, it remains to be seen how the business will handle the anticipated influx of customers and whether any adjustments will be necessary to ensure safety and convenience for all. Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story as Shadrachs prepares to bring more coffee to Oxford.