By CHAD COOPER, [email protected]
A longtime Buchanan County landmark is undergoing a major transformation as the McDonald’s restaurant in Vansant has been demolished to make way for a complete rebuild.
The restaurant closed its doors on June 7, marking the end of operations at the existing building. Demolition crews recently razed the structure, and construction is expected to continue throughout the summer. According to information posted at the site, the restaurant is scheduled to reopen in mid-September with an updated design and modern features.
During the closure, customers are being directed to the McDonald’s restaurant in Richlands.
The Vansant location has served the community for more than three decades. The restaurant officially opened on March 1, 1994, with a grand opening celebration that drew thousands of visitors eager to sample their first Buchanan County Big Macs.
The opening ceremony featured a ribbon-cutting attended by local officials, business leaders and restaurant representatives. Among those participating were then-Grundy Mayor John Fleenor, Buchanan County Chamber of Commerce President Geraldine Shortridge, owner-operators Gene and Patty Forbes, Vansant Store Manager Kenny Perry and Store Supervisor Betty Street.
Boy Scouts from Troop 746 conducted a flag-raising ceremony, while the Grundy Senior High School Band performed the National Anthem and other selections for the large crowd gathered for the occasion.
No official reopening date has been announced, but company representatives have indicated the new restaurant is expected to welcome customers back in mid-September.
