New McDonald's opens in South Lake Tahoe at the Y

On May 17, 2017, South Tahoe Now was at the demolition of the McDonald's at the "Y," and the builder said he'd have the project done and ready to open in 120 days.

Wednesday, September 13, the new 4,305 square foot building with its environmental improvements opened to the public at 11:30 a.m. That was 117 days since we saw old, 40-year-old building come down.

Inside, diners will see a sleek new design with automated ordering stations and plenty of seating.

Outside there are two entry lanes, three windows for paying and pick up, and new paving without the former potholes.

Store Manager Angelo Flores said it's been crazy and hectic getting the doors open, and, as with any new spot, it wasn't without some technical glitches that had to be worked through.

Flores has 30 employees working in the restaurant with plans to hire another 30.

Gone is the PlayPlace, but in its place are two game screens.

Some of the environmental improvements with the new building:

Conservation/Sustainability

Reduction of Energy Consumption
• LED Exterior Building Lighting reduces energy by 70%
• LED Signage reduces energy by 69%
• LED Dining Room Lighting reduces energy by 76%
• LED Menu Boards reduces energy by 50%
• McDonalds Proprietary Backshelf Exhaust Hood reduces energy by 35-53%
• Greenheck VariGreen Exhaust Fan reduces energy by 42-52%
• High Efficiency HVAC Units
• High Efficiency Gas Water Heater

Water Conservation

• Low Flow Pre-Rinse Spray reduces water usage by 60%
• Low Flow Toilets reduces water usage by 20% & Urinals by 50%
• Low Flow Faucets reduces water usage by 55%

Other Sustainable Practices

• Use of Environmentally friendly cleaning products
• Formaldehyde-free building products contribute to better indoor air quality
• Refrigeration equipment uses non-ozone depleting, chlorine-free refrigerants to protect the atmosphere