Construction is expected to start next fall on the redevelopment of the upper Queen Anne Safeway (2100 Queen Anne Ave. N.), the supermarket chain announced last week.
But along with doubling the store’s existing footprint of 25,000 sq. ft., development plans for the site are also calling for the addition of four-stories of multi-family housing above the store.
In a press release, Safeway’s Seattle Division President Karl Schroeder said the company “loves being a part of this neighborhood,” and that past remodels of the store after its 1962 opening were limited because of the footprint.
“We are now committed to pursuing a redevelopment plan well-suited to both our neighbors and the location,” he said. “We know how important this store redevelopment will be to the neighborhood and are taking a thoughtful approach to building design and materials.”
The release stated that the project design will “focus on neighborhood integration, and enhancing the street-level character,” and that the expanded store will offer “more premium elements tailored to the Northwest.” With a larger footprint will also come expanded departments within the store, and a larger selection of fresh, local, and organic products. The current size has limited the store’s ability to offer a wider selection of items.
The entitlement process for the project is expected to begin this summer. Local firm Holland Partner Group has been chosen as the project developer, and Ankrom Moisan is the project architect. Other members of the development’s design team are expected to be added to the project soon.
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