Spartanburg Prepares for Whataburger’s Grand Opening amidst Concerns for Traffic
In the beautiful city of Spartanburg, residents are gleefully anticipating the opening of a new Whataburger restaurant on October 28. But with the buzz of excitement comes a ripple of concern: how will the popular eatery’s opening affect traffic in an already crowded area?
Local residents, especially folks frequenting the bustling East Main Street, are no strangers to lunch-hour traffic jams – thanks in part to the always-in-demand Chick-fil-A restaurant. Now, rumblings are queuing up around whether the arrival of Whataburger – located cheekily next to Tropical Smoothie Cafe – might further congest the area.
Lauren Francis, a middle school teacher who indulges in her weekly Chick-fil-A habit, voiced her worries. “It gets backed up on the road already with Chick-fil-A and so adding Whataburger in there, I think there needs to be some traffic consideration,” she said.
Learning from the Past, Planning for the Future
Memories of Whataburger’s bustling debut in Boiling Springs on July 15 are still fresh in locals’ minds. Deployed sheriff’s deputies directed a winding river of cars at the busy intersection. Anticipating that Spartanburg’s story might unfold similarly, the city’s authorities are actively working alongside the Whataburger team to devise a traffic plan capable of handling the influx.
Police spokesman Maj. Art Littlejohn acknowledged the upcoming challenge, remarking, “We anticipate increased traffic and congestion especially during the restaurant’s first days of business.” He also advised residents to consider alternate routes unless it’s necessary to travel near the restaurant’s location.
A Silver Lining Amidst Traffic Concerns
On a brighter note, stay-at-home mom and east side local, Donna Anderson, looked beyond the potential traffic and shared her excitement for the new Whataburger. She highlighted that unlike other fast-food joints in the area that close overnight, Whataburger operates 24 hours. Plus, there are multiple entrances into the restaurant complex and a back way into the shopping center that may help to mitigate traffic hassles.
“I went to the one in Boiling Springs,” Anderson said, with a hint of excitement in her voice. “That was my first time. That was a really good burger.”
Stay Tuned
As we await more details about the city’s strategic traffic plan and prepare for the grand opening of Whataburger, remember to drive consciously and respectfully, especially in the concerned areas during lunch hours.
And of course, for those who haven’t tried it yet – brace yourselves for a good burger!
