HomeMy WebLinkAboutC_Response Letter_Taco Bell_170710_v1TACO BELL • 1 GLEN BELL WAY • IRVINE, CA 92618 • 949.863.4500
July 10, 2017
Jill Ding, Senior Planner
1055 South Grady Way
Renton, WA 98057
Subject: “On Hold” Notice
Taco Bell / LUA17-000288, MOD
Dear Ms. Ding,
We received the request for additional information in regards to our variance request at 4225 NE 4th
Street. While the architectural requests are a collaborative effort between Taco Bell and our National
Consultants (GPD Group and CM Architecture), this letter will speak directly to Taco Bell’s desire to build
in Renton.
Taco Bell has made a concentrated effort to develop the Pacific Northwest, specifically Washington. In
2017, Taco Bell has opened three new company owned stores in Milton, Tacoma, and Lacey. Also in
2017, our local franchisees have remodeled seven existing restaurants and opened two new restaurants.
Taco Bell leads the QSR industry in food innovation, culture, and restaurant design. At this time, we’re
riding the wave of our current restaurant image named Explorer; a concept using authentic materials and
encouraging communal dining. Constantly evolving, we are currently testing our latest image:
Transformational. The Transformational image stands on the foundation of Explorer but encourages local
customization, community engagement, and transparency. For example, there are four types of
Transformational design: California Sol, Urban Edge, Modern Explorer, and Heritage; each offers a
distinct look and feel associated with major market segments. Three of four Transformational designs
have found homes across the country and we are seeking approval to build the final, California Sol, in
Renton.
As a concept, California Sol celebrates active outdoor living, where the line between indoor and outdoor
is blurred – a philosophy that rings true in the heart of Renton residents and mid-century modern
architecture. Our open kitchen and open drive-thru encourages interaction between our Food Champions
and customers. Complete transparency at our cook lines reinforce our commitment to preparing food
using the best ingredients. Full height windows will bring the outdoors in while showcasing our refined
dining room from the inside out. During sunny days, our patio will prove a popular destination. During
cooler days, our dual sided fireplace will set a cozy tone encouraging customers to sit and stay a while. In
addition, we’ve extended the residential touches to the exterior of California Sol. Through the use of
similar building materials and finishes, Taco Bell acts as a complimentary landmark to The Parc, a new
residential community located directly south of the Taco Bell site.
At the heart of Taco Bell is the purpose to Feed People’s Live with Màs. Màs means doing more and
giving more with passion, creativity and a twist. Taco Bell wants to employ Renton. Taco Bell wants to
feed Renton. Taco Bell wants to provide Renton with a unique dining experience that has been retooled
and redesigned to reflect the community and natural surroundings.
It is with hope that together Taco Bell and Renton can Live Mas!
Sincerely,
John Natland
Manager, Architecture & Design