A Savannah developer has targeted the new Kroger shopping center as the site for a Dairy Queen restaurant. The Richmond Hill Planning Commission gave the nod for the restaurant, and the final step will be a vote from City Council next week.

Developer Inman Hodges, Jr. plans to build the restaurant next to the Kroger gas pumps. The plans show the drive-through facing the pumps while the front of the restaurant faces Hwy. 144. It also shows two patios – one covered and one uncovered – and greenery around the building. The site is 1.2 acres in size.

Hodges owns the Richmond Hill KFC/Taco Bell as well as the Dairy Queen in Rincon.

Planning and Zoning Director Steve Scholar said it should not negatively affect traffic because the only way into the restaurant will be via Exchange Street or through the Kroger parking lot.

The Planning Commission approved the conditional use, site plan and building elevation. The Richmond Hill City Council gets the final say-so, and the Dairy Queen proposal will be voted on during Tuesday’s council meeting.