Working deep into Wednesday morning, the city's Planning Commission voted June 24 to allow Megabus to open a terminal at the corner of San Jacinto Boulevard and 15th Street. The terminal will occupy a vacant building that once served as a service station and then a restaurant. Megabus launched in 2006 with the intention of providing affordable travel from city to city. The company provides amenities, such as Wi-Fi, at-seat plug-ins and panoramic windows, according to the company, which officials said strives to make travel as comfortable as possible. While Megabus already has one stop on Whitis Avenue inside The University of Texas campus, the company wanted to move to a more convenient location for travelers. But before being able to relocate to the vacant lot along 15th Street, Megabus was required to get a conditional-use permit, or CUP, approved by the Planning Commission. Such a permit is needed when there is a project-specific change to a specific property. The city considers issuing CUPs for uses that may be essential or desirable but not allowed in that particular zoning district. In order to get the CUP approved, Megabus must fulfill a list of 15 conditions made by the city. One such amendment prohibited buses between 4 to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday because of traffic concerns. If these conditions are not met by Megabus, the company can be reported and penalized, according to the Planning Commission. Proponents for the new terminal told Planning Commission members about benefits of the Megabus facility, including the fact it will have on-site restrooms and waiting areas. The company also intends to renovate the property's existing building rather than rebuild, according to proponents, who also argued the site is more convenient. Opponents argued the Megabus terminal was a bad idea because it would be disruptive, not only to those living nearby but also to the flow of traffic. There were also concerns about loitering, limited parking and proximity to residential buildings at the previous terminal on Whitis Avenue that opponents argue were not properly addressed by Megabus. But in the end, commissioners voted in favor of Megabus. However, in one year Megabus is required to update the city on its progress in meeting the conditions required to remain on the site. Planning Commission members argued this would provide an easy way to ensure Megabus is complying with city requests.