Ready for a Starbucks Drive-thru in Snoqualmie? ‘Highest of probabilities’

As a new retail development project keeps plugging forward on Snoqualmie Ridge – parking lot pavement is in, retaining walls are going up, a new driveway entrance was constructed off Snoqualmie Parkway – it’s starting to become more clear who will occupy at least one retail spot earmarked for a drive-thru.

Hello, Starbucks?  Snoqualmie Ridge calling.

Now, it isn’t an absolute done deal said City of Snoqualmie Director Mark Hofman said – because the contract has not [formally] been signed – but he did describe a Starbucks drive-thru in the new Snoqualmie Parkway Plaza as having “the highest of probabilities.”

Hofman further explained that project building permits submitted to the city also anticipated a Starbucks drive-thru.

The new retail center will be anchored by a nearly 43,000 sq. ft. Safeway grocery store, as well as a 15,000 sq. ft. Bartell Drugs. It is also expected to have more retail without a drive thru access and a fuel station associated with Safeway.

These will be the second Snoqualmie Valley locations for both Safeway and Bartells. Each has existing stores in nearby North Bend. The new locations should open in summer 2017.

This would potentially put a second [stand alone] Starbucks within a few blocks of an existing, and very busy, Starbucks located adjacent the Snoqualmie Ridge IGA on Center Blvd.  The new Safeway will also have a Starbucks inside.

About new Safeway, Bartell Drugs

According to a June 2016 press release:

The Safeway store’s exterior, designed by Fuller Sears architects, will reflect the aesthetic theme of Snoqualmie Ridge. The store interior will boast wall-to-wall specialty departments, including a Starbucks with a light-filled seating area and an indoor/outdoor fireplace, full-service deli with a fresh sushi bar, expanded wine department with premier selections, and full service meat, bakery and floral departments. Safeway will also be including its top-tier produce department, abundant with organic and local fruits and vegetables.

The new store will employ 125-150 people, and will be seeking applicants for full-time and part-time position two months before it opens. Safeway will also construct a 6 pump fuel station with the store.

Bartell Drug’s new store will feature a selection of thousands of popular health, beauty and lifestyle products, and a convenient drive-through pharmacy window. It will also continue Bartell’s commitment of offering locally-made products.

“Bartell Drugs is excited by the opportunities presented by this store opening,” states Bartell Drugs President and CEO, Brian Unmacht. “The new Snoqualmie Ridge location will continue our unique blend of expert pharmacy services along with a great selection of local products.”