Despite concerns about long vehicle line-ups and emissions from idling cars and trucks, Red Deer’s municipal planning commission issued site development approval for a new Tim Hortons store on Wednesday.
Imperial Oil Ltd. plans to renovate its Heritage Esso service station at 6020 67th St., including the addition of a Tim Hortons drive-through. Work at the site — which currently consists of a service station, convenience store and car wash — would include new fuel pump islands, lighting, signage, landscaping and pedestrian paths. It would also involve the development of the drive-through with a dual-lane line capable of accommodating 22 vehicles.
Ed Citton, Imperial Oil’s manager of real estate development for Western Canada, said the average number of vehicles at the store during peak periods is expected to be about 13 to 14. The dual-lane line, which would converge into a single lane as it approaches the drive-through window, would allow customers to place orders from both lanes.
“Your wait time is lessened, your stop time is less and your ability to stack vehicles becomes greater,” said Citton, adding that the dual-line design is now the standard for new Tim Hortons.
Councillors Buck Buchanan and Cindy Jefferies both expressed optimism that it will prevent the vehicle congestion problems common at other Tim Hortons in the city.
A traffic impact assessment for the project was reviewed and approved by the city’s Engineering Services Department.
Jefferies asked Citton if an air quality assessment had also been completed. He replied that it had not.
“I do think with drive-throughs in general, not just Tim Hortons, . . . we do need to concern ourselves going forward with air quality control issues,” said Jefferies.
In recommending approval of the application, city administration noted that the changes would enhance the buildings, the area and pedestrian access.
Vehicles will access the property from 59th Avenue and the westbound lanes of 67th Street.
Members of the commission approved the application unanimously.
hrichards@www.reddeeradvocate.com