ST. PAUL – It wasn’t an April Fool's joke when fencing went up around the St. Paul McDonalds restaurant location on April 1, blocking it from public access. It was, however, the start of a large renovation project that will close the restaurant to the public until next month.
The fast-food restaurant’s drive-thru is expected to reopen by May 3, and owner James Richer is hoping for the fast-food restaurant to be completely reopened by the end of May.
“Everything – from the kitchen all the way through the dining room and public rooms – has been ripped to the studs and is being redone,” says Richer. By Tuesday morning, a large opening was visible on the south side of the restaurant facing main street and crews were busy getting to work.
Richer says it is about time the restaurant got an upgrade, as some of the equipment and technologies, like computers, are out of date.
He says McDonalds will be rolling out new technologies by 2025, such as with its app and ordering process, so a renovation will prepare the St. Paul location for the future.
Expected Changes
Customers can expect a new interior layout when renovations are complete.
From an exterior standpoint, there will be few changes except for the removal of the patio
“People will have noticed we pulled out the tables and the fencing,” he says, explaining the building is being extended.
“This will allow us to have some more modern and increased seating in the restaurant,” says Richer.
More space in the interior will also allow for an enclosed space accessible through sliding glass doors. This way, the space could be used for meeting purposes or private celebrations like birthday parties.
“We call it a flex room,” he explains.
Excited
Richer has been with McDonalds for over 40 years. He started as a young kid and has worked his way up.
He became the owner of the St. Paul restaurant in 2009. Since owning the restaurant, there have been little changes take place. For example, the tables and hardwood chairs have remained the same.
So, for the restaurant to finally see some change, Richer says he is excited.
“This is something that really will add an experience for existing staff and guests,” by giving them a different and improved environment.
“From a crew standpoint, it’s going to give them a totally enjoyable environment to be working in, and guests will love the new look inside as well,” says Richer.
A grand opening is expected to take place June after the renovation is complete.
When the restaurant reopens, “there will be a lot of specials,” Richer says, thanking the community for its continued support.
Richer also owns six other McDonalds restaurants, three in Lloydminster, and along with restaurants in Vermillion, Vegreville, and Wainwright.
