‘A lot of people are excited.’ Merced in negotiations for new Olive Garden. Here’s where
A popular national Italian restaurant chain is looking to add a location in Merced.
The City of Merced announced that negotiations are underway to bring an Olive Garden restaurant to the old Hometown Buffet location on West Olive Avenue next to the Merced Mall.
The pending Olive Garden Project plan includes a 6,489-square-foot restaurant that will seat 206 people, according to a press release from the city.
Right now, the restaurant’s nearest locations to Merced are Turlock, Modesto and Fresno.
“People seem excited,” said Merced Mayor Matt Serratto. “It’s a restaurant that people always ask about and say they want. It’s commonly mentioned. A lot of people are excited.”
More information about a construction time frame is pending completion and execution of terms and a lease agreement, according to the release.
The City of Merced also announced a Sacramento-based developer is in the process of purchasing a 6 acre property located on the southwest corner of Childs Avenue and Canal Streets, which is zoned for a commercial shopping center.
Details for the Childs Avenue and Canal Street Project includes the proposed development of a grocery store, auto parts retailer, office space, and additional retail space. The project developer, Frank Kozlowski, owner of Sacramento-based Koz Real Estate, is working with city staff to draw tenant interest to the site and secure entitlements.
“Olive Garden is a perfect fit for the council’s vision of positive growth around the Merced Mall and the broader Olive Avenue corridor,” said Stephanie Dietz, city manager for the City of Merced, in the release.
“Additionally, the development of a much-needed grocery-anchored shopping center on Childs and Canal Streets will provide convenience, growth for business, and job opportunity for residents.”
