Construction on Culver's restaurant in Grand Blanc could begin in the spring

GRAND BLANC, MI Grand Blanc could become the home of the second Culvers restaurant to open in Genesee County.

But the odd-shaped piece of land where the restaurant will sit needs final approval for a slew of variances before ground is broken on the project this spring.

The proposed development is on a one-acre triangle-shaped piece of land at 12225 S. Saginaw St. that has sat vacant for years, south of Sunset Apartments and across the street from Grand Blanc High School.

"We have tried to accommodate whats good for the city, whats good for the neighbors," said Kevin Johnson with Rhoads & Johnson, a construction company out of Fenton. "There isnt any business that can fit on this little triangle and can meet every ordinance. ... It's a strange piece."

Variances needed for the restaurant include one to allow outdoor seating, a decreased setback in the front and the south side and a reduced distance between the McDonalds drive-thru and Culvers - 250 feet is usually required. A special use request will also have to be granted for a drive-thru lane.

The city planning commission gave tentative approval Oct. 16 and a request for final approval is on the Nov. 14 City Council agenda.

The $2 million project is estimated to bring 90 new jobs to the area.

Culver's originated in Wisconsin and now has more than 450 family owned franchises in 19 states. The restaurant chain is known for its ButterBurgers and frozen custard.

Johnson said the location in Grand Blanc was a good spot for the restaurant because it was surrounded by similar businesses. McDonalds is to the south and Qdoba is adjacent is across the street.

With the property being undeveloped, it seems a restaurant would fit well with the logistics of the area, Johnson said.

Go here to read the rest:

Construction on Culver's restaurant in Grand Blanc could begin in the spring