HOWELL — The process has begun to transform a blighted gas station in Howell into a new site for Gus’s Carry Out.
The Howell Planning Commission recommended approval of a rezoning for 401 E. Grand River Ave. from General Business (B1) to Central Business District (CBD) on June 17.
The matter will next go before Howell City Council. Before construction can begin, a site plan will also appear before both commissioners and councilmembers.
Commission Chair Kathleen Kline-Hudson noted the rezoning will also allow for other uses if the restaurant doesn’t work out, including retailers, personal services, theaters, offices, showrooms and other restaurants or taverns.
Gus’s intends to relocate operations from 210 W. Grand River Ave. — which will be converted into “something different” but yet undecided, according to prior reporting from WHMI.
Paul Bensman, a real estate broker, spoke during the meeting on behalf applicant Elia Nicholas. According to him, the business has been looking for years to relocate to a bigger space in downtown Howell.
Bensman said the family is currently in talks with architects on site plans. The rezoning request indicates construction of a new, approximately 2,500-square-foot building with roughly 8-10 parking spaces for customers and employees.
The meeting packet also lists an “intent” to close the site’s existing access point along Grand River, contributing to the walkable nature of downtown Howell.
“However, it should be noted that approval of the proposed rezoning will not guarantee any particular use or layout other than adherence to the use and dimensional requirements of the zoning ordinance,” the packet read.
The site currently holds a canopy over two pump islands and an approximately 350-square-foot convenience store. The property, once meant to become Howell Gas & More, has sat abandoned for more than a decade.
Nicholas and his family are the creators behind several other beloved local restaurants, including Highland House, Tomato Brothers and E.G. Nicks Grill & Tavern.
— Contact reporter Makayla Coffee at mcoffee@livingstondaily.com.
This article originally appeared on Livingston Daily: Howell Planning Commission recommends rezoning for new Gus’s Carry Out
Reporting by Makayla Coffee, Livingston Daily / Livingston Daily
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By Makayla Coffee, Livingston Daily | USA TODAY Network
