By By Adam Prestridge
Atmore residents anticipating the taste of a Big Mac or Happy Meal only have a few more weeks to wait.
According to Hafez Corporation supervisor Perry James, construction of the new, state-of-the-art McDonald's off Main Street will be complete in late March.
"We're in the final stages," James said. "We are working on the final touches. The equipment is waiting to be put in place and the parking lot is waiting to be finished. It won't be long."
Once complete, the brand new McDonald's restaurant will not only change the scenery in Atmore, but also offer lovers of the Golden Arches a more pleasing, interactive restaurant to dine at.
"The new facility will be real nice," Hafez owner Ebrahimi Maghsoud said. "It will be comparable or better than Bay Minette."
Demolition of the aging McDonald's facility began in October. The project was scheduled for completion within 90 days, but there have been several unforeseen snags in the project – mainly weather delays.
"When it's raining you can't do very much," James said. "And when it's cold you can't pour asphalt."
James said once the new McDonald's is open for business, it will be something the Atmore community can and will be proud off.
"It will definitely bring a new and fresh look to the community," he said. "It will generate revenue and tax dollars for the community. We're giving back to the community what they've already tried to invest. They deserve this. They've waited too long for it."
Maghsoud said additions to the new location would include flat-screen televisions in the dining area, console video games, and upscale bathrooms and d/cor. The design of the building will be the newest McDonald's has to offer, which features a brick and glass front and beautiful landscaping.
Customers will also have the options of paying with a credit card or debit card at the new facility, which Maghsoud had already implemented prior to closing. Customers will be able to purchase gift cards or surf the Internet with McDonald's wireless capabilities once reopened. James added that there has been an addition of a waterfall inside the restaurant and several fish aquariums.
James also said there will be a special event for the public to attend prior to the Grand Opening, but would not give specifics.
For those seeking employment, apply at www.mcstate.com or www.hafezcorp.com