Capitol Hill’s first Chipotle restaurant may be on its way.
The restaurant cleared its first hurdle this week after the local Advisory Neighborhood Commission zoning committee unanimously approved giving the establishment a special zoning exception for fast food establishments. The case now moves on to the full commission, which will take up the proposal next week.
Although many residents have voiced their support for the restaurant, a few — namely those who live on 7th Street near the proposed location on Barracks Row — say they fear allowing Chipotle will open the gates to more fast food eateries. Barracks Row zoning requires fast food restaurants to obtain a special use permit before moving in. The zoning limit is meant to protect mom & pop shops and retain the character of the historic neighborhood.
According to the Eastern Market Metro Community Association blog, the committee’s approval came with a request that the Bureau of Zoning Adjustment limit the exception specifically to Chipotle. The bureau will take up the issue after the neighborhood commission votes on it next week. The ANC is expected to approve the exception, according to the blog.
