Arby’s has begun clearing out the former McDonald’s space at 7200 Muncaster Mill Road in Derwood as it prepares for construction to begin in the coming weeks.
The restaurant previously told The MoCoShow that construction at its future Red Mill Shops location is expected to begin after Labor Day, with hopes of opening before the end of the year. “We’re in permitting currently,” an Arby’s spokesperson told The MoCoShow in June. “We hope to begin construction after Labor Day and to be open before the end of the year. This is subject to change of course.”
Arby’s signed a lease for the longtime drive-thru restaurant shortly before McDonald’s permanently closed on March 15 after serving the community for decades. “Coming Soon” signage was later installed on the building as the property began transitioning to its new tenant.
The site has a long history in the Derwood community. Before operating as a McDonald’s, the building previously housed both Roy Rogers and Hardee’s. Built in 1985, it has remained a fixture along Muncaster Mill Road for more than 40 years.
The Derwood restaurant will mark Arby’s return to Montgomery County. If the current timeline holds, construction will begin shortly after Labor Day, with the restaurant opening before the end of 2026. Both dates remain subject to change.
