Whataburger eyes Republic

The city of Republic may be poised to score another development win.

Popular fast-food chain Whataburger on Nov. 22 submitted a building permit application for 1371 U.S. Highway 60, next to Andy's Frozen Custard, said city spokesperson Allyssa Dudley. The permit is currently under review, she said.

"The expansion of businesses into Republic shows that we’re a community that is not merely growing, but thriving," Dudley said via email. "We look forward to welcoming Whataburger to the city."

It's unclear if the permit was filed by Corpus Christi, Texas-based Whataburger or a franchise group, and city officials said initial permit applications did not elaborate.

Whataburger franchisee KMO Burger LLC made a splash earlier this year when it announced plans for around 30 restaurants in the Kansas City region and beyond. Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes has signed on as a partner in the venture.

Should Whataburger put down roots in Republic, it would join a growing list of new eateries as the community experiences an influx of jobs from projects such as the Amazon fulfillment center and the Convoy of Hope headquarters and distribution center.

Popeyes is planning a December opening for a restaurant at 1397 U.S. Highway 60 in Republic, and Andy's debuted in August at 1355 U.S. Highway 60.

The Whataburger plans first were reported by KY3.