In a recent meeting held on August 4, 2025, the League City Planning and Zoning Commission discussed a significant proposal for a new car wash on Marina Bay Drive. The application, identified as SUP 20 40005, seeks to establish a car wash on a 1.31-acre site located at 2464 Marina Bay Drive, approximately 300 feet north of the intersection with Davis Road.

Mark Lanishman, the planning manager for League City, presented the proposal, explaining that car washes require a special use permit under the city's unified development code. The site, previously owned by the city, was rezoned in 2015 due to challenges in developing it for open space. The proposed car wash will feature a single tunnel design and include 16 self-service vacuum stations. Access to the facility will be primarily from Marina Bay Drive, with limited access from Davis Road.

The applicant has requested a variance to reduce the required site setback from 15 feet to 5 feet, citing various site constraints, including existing easements for sidewalks and utilities. To enhance the aesthetics and mitigate any potential negative impacts, the applicant plans to implement landscaping along the southern boundary of the property.

Currently, there are three existing car washes within a two-mile radius of the proposed site, with an additional car wash application pending consideration by the city council. In total, there are 12 car washes within a three-mile radius, indicating a competitive market for such services in the area.

While the proposed development does not align perfectly with the city's comprehensive plan, it is consistent with the commercial character of the surrounding corridor. The commission is expected to make a recommendation to the city council regarding the special use permit, which includes stipulations such as limiting the use to a car wash only and adhering to specific landscaping and signage requirements.

As the city continues to grow, the outcome of this proposal could have implications for local business dynamics and community development, reflecting the ongoing demand for commercial services in League City. The commission's recommendation will be forwarded to the city council for final approval, with further discussions anticipated in the coming weeks.