I received a notice from Safeway the other day about its plans for the Upper Queen Anne Safeway, and had a few questions – such as what are the plans for parking, what materials will be used, any preliminary drawings. But, I haven’t heard back yet, so here’s what has been officially announced. And, for those hoping for a larger, more modern and clean Safeway, it’s good news:
Safeway plans to redevelop the Upper Queen Anne store with construction beginning in the fall of 2018. The new store doubles the existing square footage from 25,000 square feet to 50,000 square feet. It will also include 4 stories of multi-family housing above the ground floor retail space.
The larger Safeway promises “expanded departments” and a “larger selection of… fresh, local, and organic products” in a store that will be better able to serve the peak hour crowds.
According to Karl Schroeder, Safeway’s Seattle Division President:
“We love being a part of this neighborhood. Since 1962 the store has undergone several significant remodels that were limited to our current space constraints. We are now committed to pursuing a redevelopment plan well-suited to both our neighbors and the location. We know how important this store redevelopment will be to the neighborhood and are taking a thoughtful approach to building design and materials.”
Planning begins this summer and perhaps we’ll soon know more about parking (will it be above or below ground?) and how the building will look and fit into the business district. Plus, the usual Land Use updates and comment period. Stay tuned.