Planning Commission Notes – 12/4/2024 – Submitted by Judd Vickers
New Business:
PZT 24-0016 24-O-16 – Zaxby’s Restaurant on US50:
The Planning Commission reviewed a concept site plan for a proposed Zaxby’s Restaurant. Zaxby’s is a chicken focused restaurant chain newly expanding into Maryland and Cambridge would be one of the earlier locations. The restaurant is proposed for 2721 Ocean Gateway, which will redevelop the long-abandoned site of the old Amoco gas station next to the Peking House. The Planning Commission provided valuable feedback to the developer to improve pedestrian safety and ensure the architecture and site plan is a better fit for our community. Many national franchise chains provide several architectural options to adapt to communities, Zaxby’s seems limited with these options.
PZT 24-0003 24-O-03 – Text amendment related height in industrial zones:
Planning Commission recommended a text amendment be forwarded to City Council that would provide for raising the 50 foot height limit to 70 feet in the industrial zone as it relates to warehousing, salvage, manufacturing and other uses. Currently, 70 feet is the new standard in most communities, largely due to manufacturing needs and newer types of fire suppression requirements that can take additional space. This change would assist/encourage a new business currently seeking real estate in the Technology Park. The Planning Commission asked for modifications related to language ensuring newer buildings shall focus on a visual form to fit in with surrounding buildings. An additional modification is being made to improve language related to explosive and toxic uses, allowing those only within entirely contained indoor areas completely compliant with all State/Federal/Fire/Safety regulations.
Discussion:
Discussion related to rules and procedures was deferred.
The meeting can be viewed on Town Hall Streams.