Shivers seeks special exceptions for new facility on North Lamar

Published 12:01 pm Wednesday, January 15, 2025

Shivers Towing is planning to build a newly proposed commercial building on North Lamar Boulevard to enhance its operations and improve the appearance of its property.

On Monday, the company applied for two Special Exceptions for the Oxford Planning Commission to consider — one to permit the use of the site as a vehicle repair and maintenance facility, and another to allow for a taller building height.

The commission voted to recommend approval to the Oxford Board of Aldermen for both requests.

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Shivers Towing occupies a gravel-covered, 1-acre lot and uses it to park and store tow trucks. The new plan proposes a 14,276-square-foot structure designed to house the vehicles currently parked unscreened. The property, zoned as Traditional Neighborhood Business, will also feature fencing and screening to obscure a neighboring gas tank storage area, significantly improving the site’s appearance.

Oxford Planning staff told the Commission that the proposed changes are seen as a step toward beautifying North Lamar Boulevard, one of the main gateways to Oxford’s historic downtown square.

By replacing the open gravel lot with a professionally designed building, the project aligns with recent redevelopment efforts along the corridor. The new structure will incorporate materials and design elements consistent with nearby buildings, creating a cohesive look for the neighborhood.

According to planning staff, the site will not serve as storage for damaged or repaired vehicles.

The Board of Aldermen will consider the requests at an upcoming meeting.