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Subway inks 5-year deal

After four rocky years that have seen three different food vendors come and go, North Lake officials are optimistic that a long-term resident for the cafeteria has been found.

Fast food chain Subway has signed a contract that is expected to keep the franchise on campus through 2008. Within weeks, construction aimed at giving the cafeteria a "Subway look and feel" is expected to begin.

"I hope it's a longer relationship than that," said Christa Slejko, vice president of business services. "We're remodeling, creating a new environment. And after all, they're the ones the students told us they wanted."

It is the longest contract North Lake has had with a food vendor in more than five years.

However, the last two food service vendors, Weber and Eddie Deen, did not complete their contracts. Weber declared bankruptcy and ceased operations abruptly on May 2, leaving Slejko to make last-minute arrangements.

"We weren't too excited about some of our previous vendors," admitted Slejko, who feels better about Subway. "They've been very flexible and easy to work with. They want to be here, and that hasn't always happened in the past."

Originally slated to open the second week of the fall semester, Subway General Manager Ronn Graham now believes the new store will not be operating until late September and perhaps later.

"At this point, we're hoping to be up and running no later than Oct. 1," said Graham.

Graham nor Slejko attributed the delay to any particular issue, though Graham did describe the logistics involved as extensive. Slejko pointed out that, while the new five-year contract is "in play," it's not finished and blueprints have not yet been finalized.

Since the new store will not be open until mid-semester, Graham said a crew will be on campus Aug. 25 to offer limited breakfast, lunch and dinner service, including $5 box lunches. Graham said an area will be set aside where food preparation can take place to accommodate high volume.

"We hope to be able to offer this [limited service] to students uninterrupted until the new Subway is completed," said Slejko, pointing out contingencies were already in place to ensure that.

Beyond the limited operations the first day of school, more details are becoming available regarding the final, full-service Subway itself. Graham pointed out several features that will be specific to this location.

"Our main concern is speed," said Graham. "We know students are in a hurry."
In addition to accepting credit cards, the new location will set all prices (including tax) in quarter increments. Graham hopes this will quicken service and simplify the payment process.

The location will feature two lines in addition to the regular, full-service line offering standard menu items. A coffee line will include gourmet coffee, such as lattes and cappuccinos, and a quick line will be available for grab-and-go items, like pre-made box lunches and personal pizzas.

"This is a unique location," said Graham, "so we"re offering some unique options."