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Business & Tech

River Road McDonald's Re-Opens With Face Lift

First branch to receive renovation in Montgomery County.

After weeks of construction, the McDonald’s on River Road isn’t the same red-roofed, white-walled staple of Bethesda. This branch of the popular fast food chain is the first in Montgomery County to receive a renovation that’s part of the company’s $1 billion nation-wide plan to modernize.

“This design has certainly played a significant role in their continued business success,” owner Kathy Foster said. “Locally, we work to stay relevant to our customers. This renovation/remodel provides that relevance.”

While the popular fast food chain won’t officially re-open until July 30, construction is slated to finish June 25, allowing customers to view the new contemporary design. The renovated restaurant features neutral colors, lower lighting and zoned seating that provides different areas for customers who want to eat quickly and those who want to stay for longer.

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“We hope to serve more customers than we ever have,” said Foster, who will pay between $400,000 and $700,000 for the remodel. “We feel our customers will appreciate the new look and reward us by visiting more often.”

Even though the drive-thru was only closed for a couple of days, McDonald’s interior had to be closed for a longer period of time to allow construction crews to renovate. During that time, some customers who typically visit the River Road located visited other branches in the area, Foster said.

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Additionally, the prevalence of construction workers’ vehicles in the branch’s parking lot has often made it difficult for customers to find a spot for their car. But, despite the difficulties, Foster said she appreciates how patient customers have remained.

“I was aggressive to get our store completed as soon as possible in order to offer our customers continued value and experience,” she said. “We are proud of our new look and cannot wait to show it to our new and old customers."

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