McDonald’s and its franchisees recently announced plans to invest about $126 million in Washington state throughout 2018-19 on the construction and modernization of more than 170 restaurants.

Twenty-two restaurants in Benton and Franklin counties have been included in the work.

The improvements are aimed at transforming the customer experience inside and outside the restaurant.

In total, McDonald’s and franchisees are investing $6 billion to modernize most U.S. restaurants by 2020, including most restaurants in Washington state.

The improved restaurants will feature modernized dining rooms with globally and locally inspired décor, new furniture and refreshed exterior designs.

Customers will be greeted with digital self-order kiosks that make ordering and paying for a meal easier. Kiosks empower guests to browse the menu, find options and tailor their meal just the way they want. They can easily tap the screen to add or subtract salt, condiments and pickles on burgers or swap fries for a salad.

Remodeled counters will allow for new table service, offering guests a chance to sit and relax while their food is being made.

Improvements also include bright and easy-to-read digital menu boards inside and at the drive-through.

The popularity of McDonald’s mobile ordering and pay options via its app mean the improvements include new designated parking spots for curbside pick-ups.

Look for expanded McCafé counters and larger display cases, too.

“This is an exciting time for McDonald’s and we’re proud to be investing nearly $126 million to provide a new experience, look and feel for guests at 170 McDonald’s locations across Washington state,” said Alan Finkelstein, a Washington state McDonald’s owner-operator. “We are also pleased that our modernization supports local architecture, engineering and construction jobs across the Evergreen State.”

In addition to the investments to modernize the restaurant, McDonald’s has also introduced McDelivery with Uber Eats at more than 5,000 U.S. restaurants.

McDonald’s USA LLC serves more than 25 million customers every day. Recently the company committed $150 million over five years to extend benefits of its global Archways to Opportunity education program, announced goals to improve its packaging and have recycling in all of its restaurants by 2025 and pledged to reduce greenhouse gas emissions related to McDonald’s restaurants and offices by 36 percent by 2030.

“McDonald’s has been a leader in Washington through its ongoing investment in restaurant construction, guest experience and its employees,” said Rep. Pat Sullivan, D-Covington. “McDonald’s is helping Washingtonians reach their potential through flexible employment opportunities and access to tuition assistance.”