PNJ Headlines: Here’s What’s in the News Tuesday
As the week unfolds, Santa Rosa County is buzzing with exciting developments that promise to shape the community’s future. From ambitious restaurant projects to community celebrations, here’s a closer look at what’s making headlines.
Fast-Tracking Growth in Santa Rosa County
Santa Rosa County is on the brink of significant growth, with several projects in the pipeline aimed at enhancing the local economy and community life. One of the most talked-about initiatives is the proposed new location for Grover’s Fingers and Wings, a popular dining establishment known for its nostalgic diner fare. Owner Michael Graham and his business partner, local home builder Mike Price, are eager to bring a new restaurant to the Pace area, specifically targeting the Five Points region.
However, before they can break ground, the duo must navigate the zoning process. They are seeking to rezone 2.61 acres of vacant land from residential to commercial use. This crucial step will be discussed at a Santa Rosa County Zoning Board meeting on Thursday at 6 p.m., followed by a review from the Santa Rosa County Board of County Commissioners, which holds the final decision-making power.
Community Concerns and Traffic Safety
While the prospect of a new restaurant excites many, it has also raised concerns among local residents regarding traffic and road safety, particularly at the intersection of Quintette and Tunnel roads. In response to these concerns, Price has proactively proposed relocating the restaurant’s entrance several hundred feet away from the busy intersection to alleviate potential congestion.
“We want to hear from the community,” Price stated, emphasizing his commitment to addressing residents’ concerns. He plans to consult with professionals to conduct traffic studies and ensure the restaurant’s design accommodates both safety and accessibility.
A Vision for Local Dining
Graham envisions the new Grover’s location as a community hub, offering a diverse menu that caters to various tastes. “The restaurant is literally a place where you can eat for a week or two and get something different and really good every single time,” he said. The duo aims to replicate the successful blueprint of their Milton location, which features separate cooking lines for drive-thru and dine-in customers, spacious restrooms, and outdoor seating areas.
The proposed Pace location would be more than double the size of the Milton restaurant, allowing for ample landscaping and outdoor space. Price expressed his desire to create a family-friendly atmosphere that accommodates all types of customers, including those with larger vehicles.
Celebrating Community Spirit
In addition to the exciting developments in the restaurant scene, Pensacola recently celebrated Martin Luther King Jr. Day with various events honoring the legacy of the civil rights leader. These celebrations serve as a reminder of the community’s commitment to inclusivity and progress, reinforcing the importance of unity in the face of growth and change.
Looking Ahead
As the zoning discussions approach, both Graham and Price remain optimistic about the future of Grover’s Fingers and Wings in Pace. They understand that if their request is denied, they will have to wait a year to reapply, but they are hopeful for a favorable outcome with community support.
“People are coming here because it’s a great place to be,” Price noted, acknowledging the balance between development and preserving the community’s character. “This is our hometown. We’re trying to reinvest in our hometown.”
Stay Informed
For those eager to keep up with the latest in the local dining scene, subscribing to the Pensacola Eats newsletter is a great way to stay informed. Delivered every Wednesday, it offers insights into new restaurant openings, culinary events, and more.
As Santa Rosa County continues to evolve, the community’s engagement and feedback will play a vital role in shaping its future. Whether it’s through new dining options or celebrating cultural milestones, the spirit of collaboration and growth is alive and well in this vibrant region.