LYNN — The wait is almost over for the opening of Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen, the latest fast-food restaurant to make its home on Boston Street.
“We are opening early next week, assuming all permits are issued and we don’t see why they wouldn’t,” said Howard Hymowitz, the company’s director of operations. “We think all our issues are behind us.”
A sign on the eatery’s window on Tuesday said it will open in nine days, on Thursday, Oct. 19. But Hymowitz said the staff has been hired and four days are needed for training.
The precise opening date is an estimate because they still need final building and food permits from the city’s Inspectional Services Department.
Several problems arose after the city approved construction of the 2,740-square-foot Popeyes at the former Global gas station in early March, he said.
First, the restaurant needed a new electrical transformer which required installation of a new light pole. City Council approval came last month. But the job was delayed because National Grid diverted its construction crews to Florida in the wake of Hurricane Irma.
The other factor that contributed to the delay was Restaurant Brands, the owner of Burger King and Tim Hortons, agreed to pay $1.8 billion to acquire the fried chicken chain. That deal closed in April.
The 26,414-square-foot property across from Stop & Shop was purchased last year by 180 Boston Street Development LLC, a New York-based entity managed by fast food restaurant executive Amish Parikh, last summer for $920,000, according to county records. The LLC borrowed $16.8 million to develop the property.
The one-story eatery will feature a drive through and 28 parking spaces.
They will face competition from the other chains including McDonald’s, Burger King, Taco Bell, Wendy’s, and a half dozen independent shops.
