New Rest Areas Planned in Hooksett

[mcdude]

from WMUR....

State announces plans for welcome center on I-93 in Hooksett
$35 million project underway

HOOKSETT, N.H. —Calling it a Welcome Center that will be uniquely a "New Hampshire experience," Gov. Maggie Hassan broke ground on a new rest area complex at Hooksett, Thursday.

• The $35 million project will be like no other rest area in the country, assured Alex Ray, owner and founder of The Common Man, who with Rusty McLear of the Inns & Spa at Mill Falls in Meredith, forms Granite State Hospitality LLC, the state's new partner.

Chris Clement, commissioner of the Department of Transportation predicted that when completed in 18 months it will be a "must stop for NH residents and visitors alike," along Interstate 93.
In addition to a spacious visitor center and 24-hour country store, a '50s style diner and more, it will have a long dog walk area, more than 300 parking spaces, 16 Irving fuel stations and of course, improved wash rooms.
On both sides of the highway.
It seems like there is something in it for everyone to like.
For the NH Liquor Commission, which will see its tired, 7,800-square foot liquor store replaced and more than double in size, to 20,000 square feet, it will be a revenue driver.
To the public that drives the road, it will offer many more options.
Hassan said across the state, people are curious about this project.
"People are very excited about it," she said, and counted herself among them. When she tells them that the Common Man is the developer "they say 'Oh good....It's gonna be like New Hampshire.'"
Ray said there will be no national brands and no golden arches for the kids, "but we'll win them over," he assured.
Using notes he wrote on a crushed paper coffee cup which he found in the parking lot, Ray said he is "so excited to start something that is novel," and marveled that the entire team, with the possible exception of Irving Oil, is New Hampshire-based. Irving is based in New Brunswick, Canada.
Ray said he has visited more than 25 rest areas across the country and it will be like none of them.
"This will be a New Hampshire-themed product," he said.
Using mill style architecture, the new service areas, to be named Common Man Hooksett, will be designed by Samyn-D’Elia Architects, P.A. located in Ashland and built by Conneston Construction Inc. located in Gilford.
North- and southbound Service Areas will each feature:
-- Mill Building Architectural Style
-- 3,000 sq. ft. Interactive Visitor Center
-- 16,000 sq. ft. Uncommon Food Court
-- 3,000 sq. ft., 24-Hour Country Store
-- More than 300 Parking Spaces
-- New 20,000 sq. ft. New Hampshire State Liquor & Wine Outlet
-- 16 Irving Oil Fueling Stations
-- NH Bank
-- 16,000 sq. ft. NH Uncommon Food Court featuring a 1950s Hi-way Diner, Italian Restaurant, Country Deli/Sandwich Shop and Village Bakery/Coffee Sho
The project will use energy-efficient construction techniques.
It is also expected to create new jobs.
About 137 full-time equivalent jobs are expected to be created, exclusive of liquor & wine outlets.
Jeff Rose, commissioner of the state Department of Resources and Economic Development, said he is really excited about the project and what it can mean to tourism and economic development.
Currently, he said the rest areas get about 1 million visitors a year. The new facility will attract more people who will be able to learn more about the New Hampshire attractions, events and natural resources in an interactive visitor center.
Granite State Hospitality was one of three bidders for the project and the only one from New Hampshire.
Commissioner Clement credited House Majority Leader Gene Chandler of Bartlett, who served on a legislative long range committee, with suggesting that the private sector be offered a blank slate to make their proposals rather than the typical approach of a state agency sending out a narrow request for proposals.
Chandler said it was a good way to go and a no-brainer to get behind the NH team's proposal.
The project is a win-win for the state and private business and the traveling public, he said.
Work begins on the north side of the highway immediately and the south bound rest area will see construction begin at the beginning of next year. Both will be complete by April 2015.
In the construction period the rest areas and liquor stores will remain open, Clement assured.

[Slickcraft]

Welcome to New Hampshire! You may commence spending immediately!

[Pineedles]

I would think it would be cheaper to provide access for both North and South bound vehicles and build ONE rest stop. But of course that would be logical and save tax payer's some money.

[chaseisland]

Leave it to NH to place a welcome center 40 miles from the border inside the state. What's next, a toll both in Colebrook?

[mcdude]

Originally Posted by Pineedles

I would think it would be cheaper to provide access for both North and South bound vehicles and build ONE rest stop. But of course that would be logical and save tax payer's some money.

My guess would be that if it weren't clearly an easy on / easy off situation not as many people would be tempted to stop

Leave it to NH to place a welcome center 40 miles from the border inside the state. What's next, a toll both in Colebrook?

My guess on this one is that the toll is placed this far north so that instead of only collecting tolls from the traffic coming up 93 they also get tolls from those who came north on 3 or 393 (or even 101) which has merged onto 93 just before the tolls.

[LIforrelaxin]

I am sorry but this seems like a huge waste of money.....

Or is it?

the big question here is how is this all going to be paid for.... if the 35 Million dollar price tag is being picked completely by the state, then this just isn't very cool....

Other things to spend money on, I am sorry... but this is not needed.

[songkrai]

Originally Posted by LIforrelaxin

I am sorry but this seems like a huge waste of money.....

The state of New Hampshire sold the Lottery Commission to a private company. No longer in state hands. The private company has to make a profit off the lottery. So how much now goes to education? The actual intended original purpose of the lottery.

The state of New Hampshire sold the entire rest area. Private enterprise.

Instead of the state owning the rest area and the liquor store. Now the state will pay rent for all of this

Win. Win. For everyone.

Private enterprise will make huge profits off of this. With guaranteed income from the state as a tenant - forever.

[jrc]

While I know this doesn't fit the narrative about the evils of private enterprise, someone has the landlord and the tenant swapped. This snip is from the Concord Monitor story:

"Ray and McLear will sign a 35-year lease with the state that calls for at least $23 million in rent payments and a tiered percentage of fuel and other sales. In total, the state could bring in about $38 million."

So the state will receive money from this deal.

[Pineedles]

Originally Posted by jrc

While I know this doesn't fit the narrative about the evils of private enterprise, someone has the landlord and the tenant swapped. This snip is from the Concord Monitor story:

"Ray and McLear will sign a 35-year lease with the state that calls for at least $23 million in rent payments and a tiered percentage of fuel and other sales. In total, the state could bring in about $38 million."

So the state will receive money from this deal.

So the state pays 35 million dollars now and may get $38 million over a period of 35 years? Wow, what's that about .000001% interest? A great deal, NOT!

[Winnisquamguy]

Originally Posted by Pineedles

So the state pays 35 million dollars now and may get $38 million over a period of 35 years? Wow, what's that about .000001% interest? A great deal, NOT!

The state is not paying anything...

HOOKSETT — Residents and visitors welcomed news yesterday that ground has been broken for a significant upgrade of the Hooksett welcome centers on Interstate 93.
Gov. Maggie Hassan, other state officials and representatives of The Common Man restaurants wielded shovels and oversize cutlery yesterday in the ceremonial event.
The Common Man has a 35-year lease with the state and will fund construction and operations at the welcome areas on both sides of the highway. the state Liquor Commission will continue to fund and operate the two state liquor stores there.
The redesigned centers will feature multiple dining options, a visitors center, gas stations, a bank, a country store and the state liquor stores.
“The Hooksett Welcome Centers project is an innovative public-private partnership that will help boost our economy and support our tourism industry by providing a high-quality welcome for all visitors to the Granite State,” Hassan said. “With the project estimated to create over 130 long-term jobs, the new Welcome Centers will help spur economic growth and offer a uniquely New Hampshire experience that showcases what makes our state special.”
New construction will feature “mill-building architecture.” The Common Man dining options will include a 1950s-style diner, am Italian farmhouse restaurant, a deli and a breakfast option.
There also will be a 24-hour convenience store, two new liquor stores, a bank branch, and an interactive visitors center. Irving Oil will have two gas stations and there are plans for electric vehicle plug-in stations. At 20,000 square feet, the new liquor stores will be twice the size of the existing outlets.
“This is a unique and innovative project involving all New Hampshire-based companies from the owner/operator, bank, architects, construction, and other partners,” said Alex Ray, owner and founder of The Common Man family of restaurants in New Hampshire. “As a long-time resident and business owner in New Hampshire, I’m really looking forward to a fresh statement for visitors and residents at these welcome centers and service areas.”
The project is expected to bring 137 full-time jobs to the area.
Both welcome centers and the liquor stores will remain open during construction, which is scheduled to be completed in April 2015.

[ishoot308]

I personally think it's a win / win situation for both the state of NH and the Common Man. The Common Man is a good restaurant and very well run establishment. It certainly a hell of a lot better than having a Burger King or Mcdonalds there!

It will be very handy to have the gas stations there as well! Most Irving stations are well run and very clean!

I think this a great decision in a perfect location and will be a very successful endeavor.

Dan

[chipj29]

Originally Posted by ishoot308

I personally think it's a win / win situation for both the state of NH and the Common Man. The Common Man is a good restaurant and very well run establishment. It certainly a hell of a lot better than having a Burger King or Mcdonalds there!

It will be very handy to have the gas stations there as well! Most Irving stations are well run and very clean!

I think this a great decision in a perfect location and will be a very successful endeavor.

Dan

I agree Dan. I don't get the worries that it will cost the state a ton of money. As of right now, the only money they are making there is liquor and lottery sales. When the new rest area is done, they will still make that money (maybe more), and will make more as a % of the sales in the restaurants/fuel.

Not to mention the fact that these will be about 3 miles from my house, and will give me a new dining option. Meal prices will determine how often I go there, but at least it is something.

[IslandRadio]

Originally Posted by chipj29

Not to mention the fact that these will be about 3 miles from my house, and will give me a new dining option. Meal prices will determine how often I go there, but at least it is something.

Won't you have to pay a toll to get there

[chipj29]

Originally Posted by IslandRadio

Won't you have to pay a toll to get there

Negative. There is non-highway access to both NB and SB rest areas. There are gates so that you cannot get on the highway from there.

[dpg]

Is this where the current large liquor store is on both sides of 93?

[LIforrelaxin]

Originally Posted by Winnisquamguy

The state is not paying anything...

That is not true...

The state has funded major road renovations to make this possible....
The state is more then likely responsible for snow plowing the facility....

There are many hidden costs here, which are not apparent on the surface.

There isn't enough in any of these articles to make me believe this is a win for the state of NH....

The Common Man has done a good job of making this appear outwardly as though they are doing the State a favor... but I think everyone in the end will be surprised...

[mcdude]

I would think that the 9% meal tax on all the items purchased at the --

-- 16,000 sq. ft. NH Uncommon Food Court featuring a 1950s Hi-way Diner, Italian Restaurant, Country Deli/Sandwich Shop and Village Bakery/Coffee Shop

would be more than enough to cover snow plowing.......

[Pineedles]

Originally Posted by mcdude

I would think that the 9% meal tax on all the items purchased at the --
would be more than enough to cover snow plowing.......

Not wanting to argue but, wouldn't people stopping to eat in that area be paying the 9% at another local restaurant anyways? The state is doing what government does best, move jobs or whatever across the street, and claim they have created something.

[chipj29]

I was at the NB rest area yesterday. If you are traveling in the area, please be aware that construction has begun. A portion of the parking area is blocked off, so parking is somewhat limited. And it is somewhat chaotic as well, so drive careful through there.

[MeredithMan]

If you think about any rest area / welcome center that you've been in--especially ones in tourist-centric states--what are they stocked with and how are they decorated? Brochures and Data Sheets on attractions in that state, as well as a décor that gets you in the "mood" for that state. (Example: VT has a welcome center on Rte 91 that is rustic / lodge-like, and has a lot of info on the state, as well as lots of info on attractions). I would suggest that the goal of the rest area / welcome center is not to be a money-maker in and of itself, but rather, to get people excited to spend their money in the restaurants, motels, and other tourist attractions in the state. And, to return time after time, and tell all their friends, and maybe buy a vacation home. That is where the real return on that investment is.

In poking around "www.nh.gov", it's fairly easy to find some data that proves what we all know: NH is by and large a Service Economy that is mostly driven by tourism. Just like any business, you want your customers, (the tourists), happy, so they buy from you, (NH restaurants, motels, etc), and not your competitors, (VT, ME, etc). Getting them in "the NH Mood" in the welcome center will help to do just that.

[ishoot308]

In 2011 the NH state liquor stores generated $417,000,000 in sales. These sales put $160 million into the state's general fund. In 2013 this amount has already increased to over $600,000.000 in sales! This will put over a quarter of a billion dollars into the states general fund! That's a lot of snowplowing!! Not to mention over 60% of these sales come from out of state.

The state will now add to this profit by trying to collect a 9% meals tax to everyone who visits the Common Man as well as the tax at the gas pumps.

These are not just liquor store rest areas, they are profit centers for the state. I would be willing to bet that the two liquor stores on 93 NB and SB are by far the two most profitable liquor stores in the state drawing millions of people each year.

To those of us NH natives trying to keep a sales tax away from our state, we should be welcoming this.

Dan

[Pineedles]

I'm not a native but I sure as heck would like the state to be able to offset my property taxes with more money collected elsewhere, like the meal tax, etc. I am just not sure that this enterprise will be a good deal for the state when all is said and done.

[LIforrelaxin]

Alright so I started doing some digging...

Please read this article, in which it is published that the state will reimburse the developer 8.4 million....for the liquor store cost... and then goes onto state that all the developer is responsible for is the Shell of the building for the liquor store... The State picks up the cost for the interior construction. While not uncommon this is a cost that is not being brought out to the for front.

http://www.unionleader.com/article/2...29995/0/news01

what is unclear is weather this is part of the 32M$ Granite State Hospitality figure or if it is an additional amount on top of that.

So this isn't exactly free to the State now is it?

Believe me there are many hidden costs... That are not being told.....

[Just Sold]

The current Rte. 93/Hooksett N & S rest areas are past their prime and need replacement. On many weekends the parking lot is full or close to its limit for visitors. The bathrooms are old and inadequate for today’s visitor volume. The Liquor stores get extremely over crowded on weekends, especially on holiday weekends. The current rest areas just plain do not meet the requirements and needs of today’s traveler. There are many who are local or traveling to their summer homes or vacation destination but there are many more who are just plain “Tourists” for the day and who will spend money all over NH doing it via Rte. 93. So for everyone traveling up and down Rte. 93 we need an attractive and useful rest area and that is what is coming.
The State has chosen to make a significant investment with a “partner” who will pay for most of what is required to make it happen. That is sure better than funding it by the state alone. The “partners” doing this have great track record in the restaurant and tourism industry and I expect we will see a top quality facility when it is completed that more than does what was expected.
The State’s business is tourism and you need to promote it in many ways. The new rest areas with the restaurants, gas station, liquor store, and tourist information etc. are just one way and will be a big plus for the traveling public. Do some traveling to other states that are tourist destinations and you will find similar rest areas but NH’s will be the newest and nicest.
Traffic volume is increasing and the highway gets very congested on weekends and holidays. On occasion I find myself in stop and go traffic from just north of the Hooksett rest areas to Rte. 89 and on into Concord. So infrastructure improvements to Rte.93 were and are needed with or without the new rest areas.

[Pine Island Guy]

Originally Posted by ishoot308

In 2011 the NH state liquor stores generated $417,000,000 in sales. These sales put $160 million into the state's general fund. In 2013 this amount has already increased to over $600,000.000 in sales! This will put over a quarter of a billion dollars into the states general fund! That's a lot of snowplowing!! Not to mention over 60% of these sales come from out of state.

The state will now add to this profit by trying to collect a 9% meals tax to everyone who visits the Common Man as well as the tax at the gas pumps.

These are not just liquor store rest areas, they are profit centers for the state. I would be willing to bet that the two liquor stores on 93 NB and SB are by far the two most profitable liquor stores in the state drawing millions of people each year.

To those of us NH natives trying to keep a sales tax away from our state, we should be welcoming this.
Dan

Completely agree... unless people decide to cut back on their alcohol consumption (unlikely given the trend that Dan cited), NH makes a very tidy sum on liquor sales... I'm not sure how much they just spent on building the new store at exit 6 in Nashua, but the State paid for everything including the "shell" and it appears well worth it given the traffic through there... The buildings on I-93 are dated and I'm guessing that the convenience of having a gas station and restaurant will draw in even more people that will also decide that maybe they need a few bottles for the weekend!!

Also totally agree that there are probably lots of hidden costs, however with the liquor sales, food/beverage tax, fuel tax, etc... it will still be quite a profitable enterprise for the State and the service providers, add jobs at that location, and be a really nice gateway for the tourism industry...

I don't agree that "people that stop there would have eaten at another restaurant anyway"... if that was what happened everytime a new restaurant opened... another would close... and there are many successful restaurants opening in NH every year!

Unclear why people (natives or not) aren't celebrating this as a win... politics? I'd be shocked!

PIG - enjoy the lake this time of year, it's beautiful!!

[jeffk]

The current rest area is just liquor store and bathrooms. The state had to pay to build, maintain, and plow that area. If the state wants to build a larger liquor store I would guess that they have some expectation that they can increase sales to help pay for it. Visitor centers also are common state responsibility to promote the state and available activities. I would expect that the state would continue to cover maintenance and plowing for their own operations (50% of the space).

The question is, how much of the independent business construction costs is the state going to pick up, if any? These will all be money makers for the state because of the tax revenue although there is some validity to the idea of business simply being transferred from one spot to another. Gas purchases for example. However, for food it could be the difference between $30 of fast food or $60 for a better meal. The appeal of "one stop shopping" would also make a more pleasant stop for a visitor and set a good tone for their visit.

I don't think we know enough as to whether this will be a good deal for the state in the long run but public/private partnerships are a good idea in general. The private part will be investing a considerable amount of money and paying taxes on sales. That's not a bad start.

[DickR]

I suspect most travelers along a highway would be reluctant to get off the highway in search of a restaurant. Some of those heading either way might very well get off at the rest area for lunch or dinner rather than wait until getting to where they are going, whereas (at least those heading south late in the day) they might otherwise just keep going if they had to get off to search for a place. Thus I think there would be a net increase in tax revenue for the state, and not just some shift in which restaurants provide it. I imagine all of this has been studied in depth by both the state and the Common Man orgainzation.

[upthesaukee]

Originally Posted by DickR

I suspect most travelers along a highway would be reluctant to get off the highway in search of a restaurant. Some of those heading either way might very well get off at the rest area for lunch or dinner rather than wait until getting to where they are going, whereas (at least those heading south late in the day) they might otherwise just keep going if they had to get off to search for a place. Thus I think there would be a net increase in tax revenue for the state, and not just some shift in which restaurants provide it. I imagine all of this has been studied in depth by both the state and the Common Man orgainzation.

We stopped at the Rest Area on I90 after I290 and before I84. Place was mobbed at about 1030 AM. Restaurant services were busy.

I think that it is going to be a win win situation for all involved.

[chipj29]

Like some of the others, I still think this is a “win” for the state. They own the land, and are going to generate more revenue from that.

Think of other rest areas, such as I-93 NB in Salem. That is a good sized lot with rest rooms and vending machines. I am sure the state paid next to nothing for the lot, but it does cost money for upkeep (heat, snow plowing, water/sewer, employees, etc). There is no way that the revenue they get from the vending machines is enough to offset all the costs. At least in Hooksett, they have the liquor store, and now a percentage of profits (plus taxes) from gas/food sales.

[Legionnaire70]

Originally Posted by upthesaukee

We stopped at the Rest Area on I90 after I290 and before I84. Place was mobbed at about 1030 AM. Restaurant services were busy.

I think that it is going to be a win win situation for all involved.

That place is a mad house! When I worked for Papa Gino's that restaurant was the top sales restaurant in the entire company.

So the pictures I see looks like the town of Ashland has their fingers in that project... Hiltz construction and Common man ... Hmmm
Just another one of Alex Rays slop and serve joints. He should work on improving his current establishments before opening another one.

[LIforrelaxin]

Originally Posted by Pine Island Guy

Unclear why people (natives or not) aren't celebrating this as a win... politics? I'd be shocked!

PIG - enjoy the lake this time of year, it's beautiful!!

My Lack of Support is not at all politically motivated.

And while it appears from the tone of my posts, that I am totally against, this realize that I do understand that the current facilities are not adequate and that something needs to be done.

I am just not sure that this is the land fall for the state that others seem to believe that it is. I have done a lot of traveling around this country, by car and visited a great many rest areas, visitor centers, truck stops and the like. I have seen what works and doesn't.

During times of peak travel there is no doubt that places like this do a good business.... But when travel is not at its peak, and they have to maintain staffing the profits get eaten up. Hence why often you see the prices at a premium... So sure in the summer and during ski season business is great... but what about the other 6 months of the year.

In my last posted I pointed out the first of what I am sure are multiple concessions that the state is making in this joint venture, reimbursing 8.4M$. I implore people to continue to look at this deal, and gain the understanding that is needed to truly decide if this is indeed a good deal for the state.

I will be more then willing to fall on my sword, if this venture is truly in the states best interest. However I am skeptical, and believe that it may not be.
Does that mean I am angry about it. No, it means that be involving private business to this level has a risk level, that may not be in the states best interest.

The funny thing is.... if the state had designed the facility, and built it... And then Granite State Hospitality had step in to run the food concessions, I would be much less opposed to the plan.....

Please keep in mind there was venture called Bear Right in Concord. Which is now completely none existent... Restaurant Choices, a gas station, all right off the highway... what happened to that?

[WakeboardMom]

Originally Posted by LIforrelaxin

Please keep in mind there was venture called Bear Right in Concord. Which is now completely none existent... Restaurant Choices, a gas station, all right off the highway... what happened to that?

Bear Right was not a nice place at all. Fast food was served in an oversize, drafty building. We would sometimes stop there to grab something for our kids when they were elementary-school aged, but wait until we got to our destination for something for the adults. This new facility seems much more welcoming, comfortable and attractive. I don't think one can compare the two business models.

[LIforrelaxin]

Originally Posted by WakeboardMom

Bear Right was not a nice place at all. Fast food was served in an oversize, drafty building. We would sometimes stop there to grab something for our kids when they were elementary-school aged, but wait until we got to our destination for something for the adults. This new facility seems much more welcoming, comfortable and attractive. I don't think one can compare the two business models.

Yes and no... your right the business models are not the same...

However Bear right this is a good example of when a business model fails, because developers, and business men, think they have the greatest idea.

This Venture, is just that something that business men and developers have come up with. They can make it look all kinds of impressive on paper, but once they have the project up and running, the results are what tell the true story....

I am just afraid in the end this is not going to be all its cracked up to be... Sure the idea of a nice restaurant at rest area is a great idea... but if the service is not fast enough for travelers ( something none of the Common Man restaurants have ever impressed me with ) then it is going to be lack luster....

If the rest area, was in the middle of no where it might have some appeal... but here in the east when most people can get to there destinations in 2 to 3 hours, stopping for a meal and adding an additional 30 min to 1 hour to the trip is not exactly going to be welcome improvement.

I know some people will disagree with that statement, but remember it is my opinion.

[jeffk]

Originally Posted by LIforrelaxin

However Bear right this is a good example of when a business model fails, because developers, and business men, think they have the greatest idea.

This is true of almost every business venture and despite all the study and analysis that people do to figure out whether a venture will truly be a winner, there is still a lot of guesswork and uncertainty in supporting a venture. The track record of the businessmen involved is good and that may be the biggest thing in favor of the plan. They will also have considerable "skin in the game" so they are going to do what it takes to make it successful.

[chipj29]

Originally Posted by LIforrelaxin

During times of peak travel there is no doubt that places like this do a good business.... But when travel is not at its peak, and they have to maintain staffing the profits get eaten up. Hence why often you see the prices at a premium... So sure in the summer and during ski season business is great... but what about the other 6 months of the year.

Actually, the rest areas, esp. NB, are pretty busy year-round. I stopped there just the other day (Mon or Tues this week), and it was pretty busy. That was at 4PM on a weekday, in between seasons.

[SIKSUKR]

Originally Posted by LIforrelaxin

The funny thing is.... if the state had designed the facility, and built it... And then Granite State Hospitality had step in to run the food concessions, I would be much less opposed to the plan.....

Not sure I understand this logic. You would rather have the state pay much more to develop this than a private company?

[jmen24]

Comparing this on-highway rest area with the off-highway Bear Right does not make any sense. The Manchester Street interchange with 93 is terrible now and was even worse before they "fixed" it (back in the Bear Right days).

You have to really want something at that exit to get off there! Otherwise there are 2 other ramps in that area of Concord (not including 14, that one should be removed), that can get you to either side of that intersection without having to deal with the lower end of Manchester Street at all!

[Bear Islander]

The big question for me is - will the hand dryers work in the new bathrooms?

Any chance they could take one ten thousandth of a percent of that 35 mill and fix the hand dryers now?

[Misha888]

is about right. That's the interest you eventually earn on your social security contribution.

Originally Posted by Pineedles

So the state pays 35 million dollars now and may get $38 million over a period of 35 years? Wow, what's that about .000001% interest? A great deal, NOT!

[LIforrelaxin]

I stopped by the southbound rest area this weekend, and I am not impressed. The goal of this project should have been less about the Liquor store and more about amenities for travelers. Instead I found an over sized liquor store, and a restroom facility that is not going to big enough to handle the volume in the summer or winter peak season. I am also not impressed with what I believe is going to be an inadequately sized parking situation, even when complete.

I think its great that they have opened the facility as is, and didn't wait for full completion. But I hate seeing a facility that while is nicer then the old facility is not sized correctly for its intended purpose.

All in all I am still left with my main concern, which is that a private business was allowed to much involvement with this project. That private business is interested in one thing generating revenue for themselves. Not in making sure an adequate and appropriate facility was constructed, with the intended correct use model as a rest area. This area appears to have the intended use model of a revenue creating business venture, which was allowed to be along side the highway...

[BroadHopper]

I have to agree with you here. The information booth is relegated to the old gondola on the Northbound. Small convenience store that sells mostly beer and small restroom area. Huge gas area and liquor store!
It's all about the money.........................

Originally Posted by LIforrelaxin

I stopped by the southbound rest area this weekend, and I am not impressed. The goal of this project should have been less about the Liquor store and more about amenities for travelers. Instead I found an over sized liquor store, and a restroom facility that is not going to big enough to handle the volume in the summer or winter peak season. I am also not impressed with what I believe is going to be an inadequately sized parking situation, even when complete.

I think its great that they have opened the facility as is, and didn't wait for full completion. But I hate seeing a facility that while is nicer then the old facility is not sized correctly for its intended purpose.

All in all I am still left with my main concern, which is that a private business was allowed to much involvement with this project. That private business is interested in one thing generating revenue for themselves. Not in making sure an adequate and appropriate facility was constructed, with the intended correct use model as a rest area. This area appears to have the intended use model of a revenue creating business venture, which was allowed to be along side the highway...

[chasedawg]

Originally Posted by BroadHopper

I have to agree with you here. The information booth is relegated to the old gondola on the Northbound. Small convenience store that sells mostly beer and small restroom area. Huge gas area and liquor store!
It's all about the money.........................

I agree with you as well. The convenient store is very small. Not much added value for a out of state traveler. The liquor store is way too large. Did not have a good feel about the place. Granted it will look much different when finished. I certainly was disappointed for what I saw.

[Pine Island Guy]

I guess I look at what is there now versus what was there and see progress in the right direction... it used to be a run down liquor store, a bunch of vending machines, and porta-potties...

What amenities do travelers want on I-93? certainly easy access to gas, which Irving is providing at the same price as their "off highway" stations, a rarity when you see the price-gouging of "highway service centers" in other states...

The restroom seemed plenty big to me, more stalls/urinals in the men's room than all the old porta-potties combined that served both men and women...

I too question the parking, but it looks like there will be more down in back by the restaurant... time will tell, and there's enough real estate to build more parking if needed...

Convenience store? How much do you need? There were plenty of snacks, drinks, and typical "road food"... people aren't doing their weekly grocery shopping there...

Lastly, the liquor store... let's remember, this isn't a private business... this is a State monopoly and where NH gets a hefty portion of their revenue... helping to keep us from having a sales or income tax... I say build it bigger and better and get more $$ from the tourists who just love to shop there!!

I still believe it's a lot better already than what was there before... but time will tell if it works out or not... hopefully for us NH tax payers... it does!!

-PIG

[Happy Gourmand]

P I G, I'm with you on this. Let's at least give them a chance to finish the project before we condemn it. I don't think what we are seeing now is close to what it will be upon completion. I'm also willing to bet that there will be ample parking when this is done too.
And let's also remember who is holding the bag if it does fail. The State of NH can only benefit from this project so let's all hope that it will be successful.

[chipj29]

I agree completely with P.I.G. It is way better than what was there.
-The old restrooms (northbound) had about 5 urinals and 3 or 4 stalls, and it was a pit. The new restrooms are much larger, and obviously cleaner and nicer.
-The old convenience store-oh wait, there was never a convenience store. Just some vending machines.
-The old liquor store, while pretty big, would get very over-crowded on Thursday and Friday nights, and even on Saturday morning. The new larger store should help alleviate that.
-The old restaurants-oh wait, there was never a restaurant.
-The old parking lot was pretty big, I very rarely saw it filled up. Take note that both north and southbound areas are not complete, so there will be a lot more parking than what you see today.
-The old information booth consisted of a small desk in the restroom area, with various pamphlets and flyers on wall racks. While the new one is currently in the gondola outside, if you look at the artists concept drawings, there are information booths inside the main building of the new area.

I have no dog in this fight, but my opinion is that the rest areas are miles ahead of what was there before. Give it a chance. Once they are totally completed, I think they will at the very least meet most peoples expectations.

[Happy Gourmand]

Here's the Hooksett Rest Area Redevelopment Information Sheet. It shows among other things that there will be 380 parking spots on the Northbound side and 310 parking spots on the Southbound side.

http://www.nh.gov/dot/org/operations...15970_rafs.pdf

[SIKSUKR]

Sounds like the welcome center is almost as big as the liquor store.

PROPOSED FACILITIES: The redevelopment project includes the following:
• Construction of a single structure on both the northbound and southbound sites to house:
o 16,000 square foot Welcome Center
o 20,000 square foot state Liquor & Wine Outlet Store

[Happy Gourmand]

Originally Posted by SIKSUKR

Sounds like the welcome center is almost as big as the liquor store.

PROPOSED FACILITIES: The redevelopment project includes the following:
• Construction of a single structure on both the northbound and southbound sites to house:
o 16,000 square foot Welcome Center
o 20,000 square foot state Liquor & Wine Outlet Store

Priorities, you know!!

[LIforrelaxin]

Originally Posted by songkrai

The state of New Hampshire sold the Lottery Commission to a private company. No longer in state hands. The private company has to make a profit off the lottery. So how much now goes to education? The actual intended original purpose of the lottery.

The state of New Hampshire sold the entire rest area. Private enterprise.

Instead of the state owning the rest area and the liquor store. Now the state will pay rent for all of this

Win. Win. For everyone.

Private enterprise will make huge profits off of this. With guaranteed income from the state as a tenant - forever.

As pointed out, by others the Common man will be leasing from the State....

And if you read the articles it is claimed that this is a 32M$ capital investment for Granite State Hospitality...

What I have not seen is a comment on the entire cost of the project... This includes Highway infrastructure changes some of which have already been done... And many other hidden costs....

So when all is said and done, how Much is coming out of the State Account.

The bottom line is this may not be worth it....

I have seen the model used before, Maine as an example... the problem is the gas station decided to charge a mint... so the revenue is never what is foretasted.... and over time the restaurants loose their charm.... and once again the cost is usually elevated for the convenience of it all. So once again the revenue is not what is forecasted.

Now factor in that after 35 years Granite State Hospitality can just walk away and leave the place for the State to deal with....

I would rather see the state put in Rest Area's just like they have now... there is nothing wrong with that model....Then there is no wondering about the future... no what if Granite State Hospitality folds... etc etc etc.....

[BroadHopper]

Ever since the Democrats takeover, the legislature been selling bits and pieces of valuable property that they deem 'underperforming' or 'not profitable'. A way off filling the current coffers so that they can spend as they damn well please.

When the future comes, they will say, what happened? We got nothing to show! I can definitely see this coming!

I definitely believe the state needs a 'Sunset committee', a group of business analysts that determine if a policy makes sense monetary wise. Gov. Sununnu had one and it paid off at the times.

I can never trust the current legislature to make sound judgments in money matters.

[jrc]

I haven't studied the finances of this deal but I just wanted to correct the obvious mis-information.

I'm still jaded against these guys because of the "other subject" but it seems like they scored a coup here. They get pretty much top billing as being "like New Hampshire" for their chain of restaurants. I'm sure they negotiated a deal that they could live with and that they thought would be successful for the rest areas. If not, they will lose money or go out of business.

If the state negotiated a deal that was bad for the state, then we should address that at the ballot box. Governor Maggie Hassan was elected to represented to the best interests of the State of NH, do people doubt that she did?

I hope it turns out well, it will be a visible icon for many visitors and residents. I want NH well represented and I want to be proud of this. The current rest areas are well past their prime.

[brk-lnt]

Originally Posted by Pineedles

I would think it would be cheaper to provide access for both North and South bound vehicles and build ONE rest stop. But of course that would be logical and save tax payer's some money.

They have some like that in Jersey. They're a pain in the ass, IMO.

[JDeere]

"The $35 million project will be like no other rest area in the country, assured Alex Ray, owner and founder of The Common Man, who with Rusty McLear of the Inns & Spa at Mill Falls in Meredith, forms Granite State Hospitality LLC, the state's new partner."

[Pineedles]

Originally Posted by brk-lnt

They have some like that in Jersey. They're a pain in the ass, IMO.

New Jersey also has areas that are in the middle of the 2 roads and are not any harder to get off and on as one sided areas.

[ghfromaltonbay]

Originally Posted by Pineedles

I would think it would be cheaper to provide access for both North and South bound vehicles and build ONE rest stop. But of course that would be logical and save tax payer's some money.

That's how the rest areas are set up on the Garden State Parkway here in NJ with one or two exceptions. They also provide park and ride lots adjoining the rest areas for commuters. The northernmost rest area near the NY State border has a long term parking lot with bus service to Newark Airport about 25+ miles to the south.