Starbucks Permit Granted for Marina Bay Shopping Center

Last Thursday the Richmond Planning Commission conditionally approved the permit for the construction of a new Starbucks Cafe in Marina Bay's Harbor Gate shopping center. This Starbucks will be located on the currently vacant lot at the Northwest corner of Marina Bay Parkway and Meeker Ave. According to the provisional plans the cafe will feature a drive-through lane, occupancy for about 50 customers and will provide around 30 part-time and full-time jobs.

Feelings may be mixed about such a development in our Marina Bay neighborhood, but one thing is for sure, it is good to see some of these vacant lots and empty businesses take on a new life and thereby inject some much needed conveniences and vibe into our local waterfront community. Personally I do not purchase my coffee at Starbucks, but I do see this addition as a positive development for our community, enhancing its live-ability and our local real estate values at the same time. For more information see the article from the Richmond Standard.