Chipotle Expansion in St Augustine Advances with $300,000 Permit Approval

Chipotle's planned expansion in St. Augustine has advanced with the issuance of crucial permits, marking a significant step forward in the development of the new location. On August 26, St. Johns County approved a build-out permit valued at $300,000 for a 2,693-square-foot Chipotle at 4285 U.S. 1 S., Suite 1, in front of the Moultrie Square shopping center, which is anchored by Publix. New Creations Construction from Lake City has been contracted to complete the build-out, while a sign permit worth $4,850 was also granted, with Interstate Sign and Light from Longwood handling the installation.

The site plans reveal a dual drive-thru and 35 parking spaces for the restaurant. The project replaces the Wells Fargo branch that closed in May 2024, and it envisions utilizing the pre-existing drive-thru space of the bank for another tenant, signifying an adaptive reuse of the site. A separate permit valued at $315,652 had been issued earlier in May to facilitate these structural changes.

Chipotle, known for its menu of customizable burritos, tacos, and bowls, including vegan, vegetarian, and keto options, strategically expands its footprint in St. Johns County. This follows the opening of another Chipotle location in June at the Beachwalk community, a $1.2 million investment for a 2,500-square-foot site with a drive-thru. That site is part of a retail development on Beachwalk Shore Drive, positioned north of the Shoppes at Beachwalk and approximately two miles east of I-95.

Elsewhere, St. Johns County has been active with the issuance of various sign permits between August 25 and August 27 across different locations in the area. Noteworthy approvals include those for establishments such as Dunkin’ in Hastings, Minuteman Press and Publix in St. Augustine, and Pecan Craft Kitchen in Saint Johns.

In the local dining sector, owners of the renowned St. Augustine's Floridian have enhanced the city’s culinary landscape by launching a new café, adding to the array of dining options. This expansion is part of a broader trend that also sees the arrival of an additional food truck in the area, catering to both residents and tourists.

The real estate market is witnessing potential new dynamics, with an Italian restaurant on St. Augustine Beach being put up for sale at $3.5 million. This listing is a substantial opportunity for investors targeting St. Augustine's growing hospitality scene.

Attention is also focused on one of the city's iconic events, the annual Nights of Lights. Discussions are ongoing regarding its funding, as St. Johns County leaders plan to meet to decide on enhanced financial support. Recently, the St. Johns County Tourist Development Council recommended an additional $850,000 for the event, which is pivotal in addressing logistical needs related to its large visitor turnout. Although this amount does not fully meet the city's request for $1 million, it is seen as vital for maintaining the event's success.

The proposed funding aims to cover costs, including $200,000 for shuttle services and $100,000 for lighting, with spring services benefitting from the shuttle budget as well. While the event will be shortened by eight days, city officials emphasize the necessity for extra resources to handle increasing attendee numbers. City Manager David Birchim expressed urgency for the additional funding, cautioning that without it, the event could be scaled back.

The funding proposal, having secured unanimous support from the council, will be reviewed by the St. Johns County Board of County Commissioners at an upcoming planning workshop. The board's decision will significantly influence the execution of the Nights of Lights, affecting both the local economy and visitor experiences, making it a closely watched development by stakeholders and participants alike.