The Executive Council signed off Wednesday on the redevelopment and upgrade of the Hooksett Welcome Centers on I-93.
The deal includes a 35-year lease agreement with Granite State Hospitality to oversee the design, construction and operation of the new facilities.
The project’s centerpiece – two 36,000 square foot buildings, one on each side of the highway, replacing the current state liquor store and rest stop facilities.
Each building will house new Common Man restaurants, an expanded state liquor store and wine outlet, a convenience store, and a visitor center.
The Executive Council approved the deal by a unanimous vote.
Councilor Colin Van Ostern said the improvements are good for the state’s economy.
“There’s an economic benefit to the jobs and the folks who will be working at the various restaurants and welcome center. There’s also the economic benefit of the revenue it will be bringing in. Over $20 million in revenue, possibly as much as $40 million in revenue over the length of this contract.”
The new facilities will be constructed in a mill-building architectural style, and will include a gas station, a bank and a pet-walking area.
Construction is scheduled to begin later this year and the project is expected to be completed by April 2015.
