PlayPlace being removed during major McDonald's remodel

Since the Tahoe Valley Area Plan was approved in 2015, several projects are being either already in the works or being planned, and land is being opening for development.

During Thursday's Planning Commission meeting, one of those projects was approved.

The McDonald's located in the heart of the plan area will undergo a major remodel including two driveways to make service more effiecient as well as reducing carbon emissions, the elimination of their PlayPlace to have less square footage and an outside appearance to fit more into the mountain theme desired in South Lake Tahoe.

Labeled as another scenic improvement, the commissioners unanimously approved the fast food restaurant's plan.

Planner Nick Exline explained the efficient dual driveways will result in less idling time for cars. Also, they are putting native vegetation into place, putting in water quality improvements, reducing energy use by 70 percent, reducing coverage and combining the sidewalk and bike path in front of McDonald's to the greenbelt in the rear.

"Looking forward to that," said Commissioner Shannon Eckmeyer of the plans to incorporate the Tahoe Valley Area Plan greenbelt into the area.

McDonald's plans to start the remodel in Spring, 2017.

- Story by Paula Peterson