From the Jan 17 – Jan 23, 2002 issue

News

Quality Development

New QFC Will Bring Greater Convenience to Denny Triangle

by Amy Jenniges

The southeast corner of Westlake Avenue and Denny Way, in the Denny Triangle, will get a new grocery store soon, Seattle Mayor Greg Nickels announced on January 10. A 48,000-square-foot QFC will anchor the new 2200 Westlake development, at the gateway to the South Lake Union neighborhood. The supermarket--owned by the Kroger Company (NYSE: KR)--will be at the heart of a mixed-use retail, office, and residential project.

"This is a great project," said Mayor Nickels. "Investments in our neighborhoods such as this will truly make a positive difference in the lives of the people who live and work here."

The QFC store, which is slated to open in late 2004, will offer a new level of convenience for downtown workers, as well as South Lake Union, Denny Triangle, and Belltown residents. As the only major grocery store in the South Lake Union area, QFC will serve a vital need for current residents as well as newcomers who relocate to the burgeoning community in years to come. The store will also offer added convenience for downtown workers and Belltown residents, who currently must travel to Capitol Hill or Queen Anne to shop for groceries.

The store will provide high-quality items for the urban family and professionals--including natural foods, specialty wines, and organic produce--while focusing on customized quality and service. QFC, whose 86 stores have established a reputation for offering quality gourmet products you won't find in other grocery stores, along with exemplary service, will also bring good value to families and residents by offering everyday household goods. A Seattle's Best Coffee espresso bar will greet shoppers at the front of the store.

Proponents of developing the South Lake Union area believe the project is a positive step toward attracting new residents and businesses.

"QFC is delighted to be working with Milliken Development and Vulcan Inc. to create an upscale destination shopping experience similar to our University Village store, but with many unique features that cater to our in-city customer," said QFC President Darrell Webb.

Other features of the 975,000-square-foot 2200 Westlake project include condominiums and retail and office space. The development will offer a 16,000-square-foot landscaped plaza and 260 condominium units, the majority of which will be contained in two 11-story residential towers.

The 2200 Westlake project is the result of a joint venture between Milliken and Vulcan, and focuses on offering high-quality options for living, working, and shopping.

"We feel it's critical to work closely with those who care most about South Lake Union so that our projects fit in with the community's existing plans and wishes," said Jim Mueller, director of Real Estate Development for Vulcan Inc.

Milliken officials said groundbreaking for the 2200 Westlake project is scheduled for Summer 2002.

amy@thestranger.com