City says Jack in the Box rebuild after car crash remains under construction; owner hopes to reopen by November

Community Development Director Keith Niven told the Federalist City Council Sept. 2 that reconstruction of a Jack in the Box restaurant damaged in a 2023 vehicle crash remains under way and that the city issued the rebuilding permit in October 2024. The crash occurred Oct. 13, 2023, when a vehicle eluding a state trooper struck the building and caused a fire, the chief told council during the meeting. The site has been under construction for roughly 11 months since the permit issuance, and Niven said that timeline is longer than many expect for a small structure.

Niven said the nearly two-year delay between the crash and issuance of a permit likely reflected insurance-company processes and permit preparation; the city issued the permit in October 2024. "They hope to have all the construction finished by October, and be open for business by November," Niven said, while adding, "it's optimistic" and that inspections have revealed work that needed redo. Niven said the city cannot compel the property owner or contractor to move faster than they choose and that inspectors have been working with the contractor to help complete the work.

Councilors asked whether the crash involved a DUI; the police chief said the vehicle was driven recklessly while eluding a Washington State Trooper and the trooper had disengaged pursuit before the crash. Councilors also asked about inspection issues that have slowed the schedule; Niven said additional contractor resources may be required to meet the optimistic timeline.

No formal council action was required; the item was informational. The city will continue inspections and staff will report progress if timelines change.