The Houston Planning Commission approved a variance for off-street parking at 4109 McKinney Street, allowing the applicant to provide 19 parking spaces in place of the 46 spaces required under standard parking calculations.

Planning staff said the reduced parking request is consistent with goals to preserve historic, walkable commercial buildings and that adding parking would require removing or significantly altering the existing structure. "Providing more on-site parking would displace the proposed seating area and/or remove the commercial structure occupying the site," staff said, noting the site is well served by public transportation and a walkable street grid.

Neighbors raised concerns about existing street congestion and the potential for restaurant customers to occupy residential curb space. "I am against the off-street parking because... the streets are full of cars," said Christian Pepe, who lives a few houses from the site and urged the commission to consider permit parking or other measures to protect neighborhood streets. The property owner, David Cisneros, said Eastwood is underserved by retail and that the proposed use would provide walkable amenities for nearby residents.

Commissioners approved staff's recommendation. The vote was recorded orally as a voice vote: "All in favor? Aye. Opposed? Motion carries."

Why it matters: The decision balances historic-preservation and small-business activation goals against neighborhood parking pressures. Commissioners said reduced parking is a common trade-off to retain existing buildings and encourage walkable retail, but they also urged the applicant to coordinate with neighbors on enforcement (signage, towing) and to provide required accessible parking spaces.

Next steps: Applicant to finalize site plan including accessible parking accommodations and to continue outreach with neighbors on on-street parking management.