Chick-fil-A eyes Wash., perhaps first Lynnwood

LYNNWOOD — Washington is an expansion target for Chick-fil-A, the Atlanta-based national fast-food chain, and Lynnwood could be the site of the restaurant’s first location in the state.

In March, company officials submitted a project design for review by city officials. Proposed is a 4,530-square-foot store with nearly 50 parking stalls next to Lowe’s between 196th Street SW and Alderwood Mall Parkway, east of Poplar Way.

Earlier this month, the city planning department replied to the company’s proposal, suggesting changes to the design, said associate city planner Thaniel Gouk. After the city issues a positive review of the design, the company is free to submit a building permit application, he said.

Everything is still in the early stages, said company spokeswoman Brenda Morrow. A Chick-fil-A chicken sandwich store opening in Lynnwood is at least a couple years out.

“There’s no deal yet, but we very much want to grow there in the Seattle area with several new stores,” Morrow said. “Washington state has a lot to offer. It’s definitely a place where Chick-fil-A could build community and have a charitable presence.”

Last summer, Chick-fil-A patrons crowded into restaurants in 38 states and the District of Columbia to show their support for company president Dan Cathy, who has been outspoken in his opposition to same-sex marriage.

The Chick-fil-A website notes that about a dozen new stores are set to open in August and September in other parts of the U.S., primarily in the South and Midwest. The closest is in Santa Rosa, Calif.

“Washington is one of our growth states,” Morrow said. “And we’re excited about it.”

Gale Fiege: 425-339-3427; gfiege@heraldnet.com.

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