Steamboat Pilot & Today

Steamboat Springs — Steamboat Springs could soon have a new fast-food chain restaurant. But the brand remains a mystery.

Kelly Gilstrap of Rifle will operate the new Conoco gas station/convenience store at Curve Plaza on the city's west side. He is the president of Gilco Marketing Group, based in Glenwood Springs.

Gilstrap confirmed Thursday that his company is talking to three major fast-food companies about filling the restaurant slot in the convenience store. And it was revealed this week that Mickey D's is one of the three.

Chris Nichols, who owns existing McDonald's stores in Craig and Steamboat, confirmed this week he is "talking" with the developers.

Nichols said his interest in a second store here has not gone beyond the talking phase.

Gilstrap declined to name the other contenders but was willing to rule out two major chains Burger King and Wendy's.

Burger King seemed very interested in the new store in late April but backed away from signing a contract, Gilstrap said. He said he recently called the regional office to see if he could revive interest in his location at the corner of U.S. 40 and Elk River Road but hasn't heard back.

Gilstrap predicted the new convenience store will open sometime between mid- and late October.

"If we don't get a (fast-food) contract soon, I may put a private brand in there," Gilstrap said.

The general contractor on the project is Snow Country Construction. Foundation work is under way this week and the gas tanks should be buried by next week.