Plans are underway to transform the former Family Video location at 245 Mill St. in Cheboygan into a dual fast-food establishment featuring kfc” target=”_blank” rel=”noopener” title=”KFC” data-wpil-keyword-link=”linked”>KFC and Taco Bell” data-wpil-keyword-link=”linked”>Taco Bell.
The project aims to repurpose the approximately 6,000 square feet building into two drive-thru restaurants alongside retail space. To accommodate the new setup, one existing driveway on Mill Street will be removed due to traffic concerns, with 20 parking spots slated for addition. Exterior renovations will align with corporate standards for both franchises, including landscaping enhancements.
Recently, the Cheboygan planning commission and city council, acting on recommendations from city manager and zoning administrator Dan Sabolsky, approved a proposed site plan. However, approval from the city’s zoning board of appeals is still required for the southern drive-thru due to current zoning regulations limiting buildings to one drive-thru each.
The retail section between Taco Bell and KFC will span approximately 2,000 square feet. Rodney Walker of 7 Bells LLC, a Taco Bell franchisee with over 30 years in Northern Michigan, expressed enthusiasm for the project: “We’re thrilled to introduce Taco Bell to Cheboygan and appreciate everyone’s support in making this happen.”
Cheboygan Mayor Brett Mallory echoed the community’s anticipation: “Residents have been eager for additional fast-food options, and the addition of Taco Bell and KFC aligns with our community priorities.”
Sabolsky confirmed that both restaurants are targeting a fall opening for their new Cheboygan locations.