New Rest Areas Planned in Hooksett

mcdude · 10-29-2013, 08:14 AM

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

Quote:

-- 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 · 10-29-2013, 08:40 AM

Quote:

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 · 10-29-2013, 08:53 AM

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 · 10-29-2013, 08:55 AM

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 · 10-29-2013, 08:56 AM

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 · 10-29-2013, 09:37 AM

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 · 10-29-2013, 09:59 AM

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 · 10-29-2013, 01:53 PM

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 · 10-29-2013, 01:58 PM

Quote:

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 · 10-29-2013, 06:11 PM

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 · 10-29-2013, 06:34 PM

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 · 10-29-2013, 08:37 PM

Quote:

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 · 10-30-2013, 07:52 AM

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 · 11-02-2013, 06:50 PM

Quote:

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.

Happy Gourmand · 11-03-2013, 06:26 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Legionnaire70

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.

HMMM...Papa Gino's or one of the Common Man's restaurants....let me think about which I would prefer.

C'mon Legionnaire 70, how can you dun the place before we know what will be there for restaurants? The rest area now consists of a liquor store, some vending machines and some toilets. I think what is being built will be a welcome upgrade and may even being some revenue to the State.
I'm anxious to see how this turns out. If's a success, we all win. If not, then Alex Ray, et al, will be the biggest loser. He is taking the biggest risk by far and based on what we've all seen him accomplish in Meredith, my money is on him.

PaugusBayFireFighter · 11-03-2013, 07:28 AM

I'm sure they took into consideration new developments in Hooksett like the 149,000 sq. ft. Bass Pro Shops that will attract millions of people alone over the next couple of years.

Orion · 11-03-2013, 08:01 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by PaugusBayFireFighter

I'm sure they took into consideration new developments in Hooksett like the 149,000 sq. ft. Bass Pro Shops that will attract millions of people alone over the next couple of years.

Nice! Too bad they're not going to be co-located. Now THAT would be a destination. Beautiful stores. Bass Pro web site indicates they'll be about 3 miles south of that location:

"Hooksett, New Hampshire - Bass Pro Shops, America’s most popular outdoor store, will locate a new store in Hooksett (Manchester), New Hampshire. The mega 149,000 square-foot Bass Pro Shops® Sportsman’s Center will be located at the intersection of I-93 and I-293."

BroadHopper · 11-03-2013, 08:06 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by PaugusBayFireFighter

I'm sure they took into consideration new developments in Hooksett like the 149,000 sq. ft. Bass Pro Shops that will attract millions of people alone over the next couple of years.

Cabella had their shot a decade ago. The state and Hooksett spent thousands of dollars wooing Cabellas and making plans at the Palazzi plant. Maine snatch the deal offering no property tax and sales tax for a number of years. Almost in front of LL Beans door!

Hooksett has a lot to gain. I think if the rest area concept is tasteful, like a liquor store modeled after the Nashua location, a diner similar to the Tit'n Diner or the 104 Diner and a Welcome Shop featuring NH Craftsmen gifts will be a far cry than what we have now. Of course politics being as it is will frig the whole thing up.

I hope Rusty doesn't use his 'tacky' Adirondacks decorating here, they belong in Upper state NY.

Legionnaire70 · 11-06-2013, 01:26 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by The Phantom Gourmand

HMMM...Papa Gino's or one of the Common Man's restaurants....let me think about which I would prefer.

C'mon Legionnaire 70, how can you dun the place before we know what will be there for restaurants? The rest area now consists of a liquor store, some vending machines and some toilets. I think what is being built will be a welcome upgrade and may even being some revenue to the State.
I'm anxious to see how this turns out. If's a success, we all win. If not, then Alex Ray, et al, will be the biggest loser. He is taking the biggest risk by far and based on what we've all seen him accomplish in Meredith, my money is on him.

I wasn't comparing the two to each other, did you read my post before you jumped all over me??? C'mon!
By the way, that Hooksett rest area is a toilet!

MeredithMan · 11-18-2013, 06:08 PM

Drove by there this weekend and excavation has begun!

VitaBene · 11-21-2013, 07:28 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by MeredithMan

Drove by there this weekend and excavation has begun!

And how- they are cranking away! The stores are the only buildings left that I saw. I wonder where all the tractor trailers will be parking until it is done.

chipj29 · 11-21-2013, 08:50 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by VitaBene

And how- they are cranking away! The stores are the only buildings left that I saw. I wonder where all the tractor trailers will be parking until it is done.

I have seen them parked on the ramps from the rest areas to the highway.

Just Sold · 11-21-2013, 01:57 PM

I was by there today and they are really going at it with clearing and grading. There are now trailers with the rest rooms in them and parking is definately at a premium.

mcdude · 06-11-2014, 10:09 AM

these pics posted today on FB by Bill Hemmill of Lakes Region Aerials
First pic is the southbound area and second is the northbound

SIKSUKR · 06-12-2014, 01:39 PM

Wow, looks like a 4 fold increase at least in square footage.

BroadHopper · 06-12-2014, 02:39 PM

Looks like I found the other gondola. One is at the entrance to the ski museum in Franconia.

This will be a nice touch to the Welcome Center!

john60ri · 06-16-2014, 07:36 AM

We will be up there in August. Does anyone know the completion date for this project? Can't wait to see it.

SIKSUKR · 06-16-2014, 07:42 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by BroadHopper

Looks like I found the other gondola. One is at the entrance to the ski museum in Franconia.

This will be a nice touch to the Welcome Center!

I've been eyeballing that tram for many years at the Cannon maintanance building wondering how I could pull off that going missing.

LIforrelaxin · 10-30-2013, 08:16 AM

Quote:

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 · 10-30-2013, 03:40 PM

Quote:

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 · 10-30-2013, 04:16 PM

Quote:

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 · 10-30-2013, 07:12 PM

Quote:

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.

Just Sold · 10-30-2013, 07:50 PM

It is a very poor comparison to use a 1987 private business venture that was not directly on Interstate 93 and relied on Interstate passers-by leaving the highway and other local patrons for their business. It ultimately failed too. It was also too long ago (26 years) to be used for a comparison. Times have changed and the demographics are not the same today as back in 87.

Today it is the State of NH working with a private company to accomplish a goal of a hospitality venue that is directly on and specifically geared to the Interstate 93 traveler.

This private company has a long, excellent and proven business track record in the hospitality industry that they bring to the table. Their methods work period and I believe that will make it a win-win situation for everyone.

Happy Gourmand · 10-31-2013, 07:06 AM

My thoughts are that this will be a huge success. On any given weekend, the parking lots at the present facilities are jammed with cars full of folks spending money at the liquor stores and the vending machines.
And, even if it's only moderately successful, the onus of fiscal risk is squarely on the developer who holds a lease for 35 years and who will be held liable for honoring it in the form of lease payments to the State. (US).
This very respected and successful developer is risking a lot of cash and committment to this project's success. He certainly seems to be putting more skin in this game than the State. The State is putting $8 million for liquor stores that are outdated and inadequate and will generate a ton of $$$. Oh, and they will have to plow the snow in the winter.
I'm sure the State will have more than that vested in the project, but I think this will be a big win for all.

chipj29 · 10-31-2013, 07:56 AM

Quote:

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 · 10-31-2013, 09:35 AM

Quote:

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 · 10-31-2013, 12:22 PM

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 · 10-31-2013, 12:54 PM

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?

brk-lnt · 10-31-2013, 02:11 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by 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?

They are actually partnering with the NH Humane Society. They will have dogs awaiting adoption at the restroom exits to lick your hands dry. It's proven to be more sanitary than the current hand dryers.

LIforrelaxin · 10-31-2013, 02:49 PM

Lets all agree to disagree, I have my view points, you all have yours... the true test will be time. I can counter everyone of your arguments as you can counter everyone of mine...

It just is what it is, we will see how it all turns out.

ITD · 10-31-2013, 03:15 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by 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?

Throw those damn things out and replace them with these.

http://airblade.dyson.com/handdryers.aspx

BroadHopper · 10-31-2013, 03:38 PM

Has anyone visit the Liquor Outlet in Nashua? The one behind Christmas Tree shop? That will be the ideal model for the new liquor stores to go in Hooksett. I love the wine and liquor tasting to food cooked in the center court. The store is tastefully designed, with wide aisles. The staff will order liquor that is not in stock.

Happy Gourmand · 10-31-2013, 03:47 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by BroadHopper

Has anyone visit the Liquor Outlet in Nashua? The one behind Christmas Tree shop? That will be the ideal model for the new liquor stores to go in Hooksett. I love the wine and liquor tasting to food cooked in the center court. The store is tastefully designed, with wide aisles. The staff will order liquor that is not in stock.

Yes, that store is practically in my neighborhood. By far the nicest liquor store I've been in. I wonder if this store will be the "model" for the one at the new visitor centers.

Lakesrider · 11-01-2013, 09:35 AM

I was just in the Nashua store the other day. Had to get some champagne for a nieces baby shower up in Maine. They have a tax on Booze up there. My Maine relatives always have me shop for them before I go up to Bangor. But, sssshhhhhh.....Don't tell anyone!

BTW I noticed there is construction equipment at both of the rest areas and it looks like construction has begun in Hooksett.

Pineedles · 11-01-2013, 11:06 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Lakesrider

I was just in the Nashua store the other day. Had to get some champagne for a nieces baby shower up in Maine. They have a tax on Booze up there. My Maine relatives always have me shop for them before I go up to Bangor. But, sssshhhhhh.....Don't tell anyone!

BTW I noticed there is construction equipment at both of the rest areas and it looks like construction has begun in Hooksett.

That reminds me of a story. I may have already told it but...

It seems that the powers to be in Mass. were tired of losing tax revenue when Mass citizens traveled to NH to buy their liquor, so the Mass State Police were directed to "stake-out" the NH Liquor Store parking lots and look for Mass license plated cars. Upon entering Mass these cars were pulled over and the drivers were cited. Well the NH powers that be directed their State Police to ticket the Mass State Police for loitering in the NH State Liquor store parking lots. The practice stopped after that.

Lakesrider · 11-01-2013, 11:59 AM

I remember that and also the fireworks stores were staked out. And let's not forget MA trying to recoup taxes from stores on the MA/NH border? MA was looking to get taxes for things like tires,and hard goods out of places like PEP Boys and even Sears and Jordan's Furniture who was delivering furniture into MA. Bernie and Phil's always openly advertises about saving the MA sales tax, as long as you can take it with you. I know, because I bought stuff up here while living in MA, they would take your money up in Nashua, and the Shrewsbury, MA store delivered the furniture.

BroadHopper · 11-01-2013, 01:00 PM

Back in the 70's my Connecticut neighbor, now a retired fireman, use to load up his trunk full of booze for friends and neighbors back home. He was stopped one night as his car was weighed down in the rear. He was told to open his trunk and was jailed and fined for interstate transportation of booze over so many gallons. I guess this was a holdover from the Prohibition days and the little use law was never taken off the books.

So yeah there are laws out there that will stick in court!

patman · 11-01-2013, 01:09 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Lakesrider

And let's not forget MA trying to recoup taxes from stores on the MA/NH border?

You mean like at JCPenney at Pheasant Lane Mall? They avoided that one by cutting the corner off the building:

(dotted line is NH/MA border)

BroadHopper · 11-01-2013, 03:22 PM

When the mall was built. Something about the parking lot being in Tyngsboro and all that.

There was also an issue with both the Nashua and Tyngsboro police regarding accidents right on the border line. I remember the issue was solve as the parking lot is on private property and the state and or towns have no jurisdiction on private property. I'm glad I don't shop at malls......

wobbelbill · 11-02-2013, 05:16 AM

I wonder how much business/ goodwill is being lost during the present pre-construction phase. Friday afternoon (3:00 or so) parking lot was blocked off to about half capacity due to work being done; cars were exiting 93 to go into parking lot, driving through without finding a parking space or place to circle around through again and re-entering 93 without having stopped. Wonder if scheduling couldn't be planned to be friendlier to customers/visitors?

BroadHopper · 11-02-2013, 08:57 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by wobbelbill

I wonder how much business/ goodwill is being lost during the present pre-construction phase. Friday afternoon (3:00 or so) parking lot was blocked off to about half capacity due to work being done; cars were exiting 93 to go into parking lot, driving through without finding a parking space or place to circle around through again and re-entering 93 without having stopped. Wonder if scheduling couldn't be planned to be friendlier to customers/visitors?

Those who travel 3A North through Bow knows there is an entrance to the liquor store from that road. You can use the entrance to avoid the entrance and save a buck!

TiltonBB · 11-02-2013, 08:12 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by BroadHopper

When the mall was built. Something about the parking lot being in Tyngsboro and all that.

There was also an issue with both the Nashua and Tyngsboro police regarding accidents right on the border line. I remember the issue was solve as the parking lot is on private property and the state and or towns have no jurisdiction on private property. I'm glad I don't shop at malls......

The State Police and town police do have jurisdiction in mall parking lots. The determining factor is "everywhere the public has a right of access".

You can't really think if a robbery, murder, or car theft occurred in a mall parking lot that all the police departments would have no authority to take action.

You can also be cited for motor vehicle violations in a mall parking lot as well. Again, when the public has a right of access, public safety and the greater good require the enforcement of laws to maintain order.

BroadHopper · 11-02-2013, 09:00 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by TiltonBB

The State Police and town police do have jurisdiction in mall parking lots. The determining factor is "everywhere the public has a right of access".

You can't really think if a robbery, murder, or car theft occurred in a mall parking lot that all the police departments would have no authority to take action.

You can also be cited for motor vehicle violations in a mall parking lot as well. Again, when the public has a right of access, public safety and the greater good require the enforcement of laws to maintain order.

I agree with you there, but the states made some kind of agreement as to patrolling the parking lots. Its been so long ago I can't remember the agreement. I can also remember a stake out at one time finding Mass residents trying to escape the sales tax.

10-29-2013, 08:53 AM	#3
chipj29 Senior Member Join Date: Apr 2004 Location: Bow Posts: 1,874 Thanks: 521 Thanked 308 Times in 162 Posts	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. __________________ Getting ready for winter!

10-29-2013, 08:55 AM	#4
MeredithMan Senior Member Join Date: Aug 2013 Location: Bedford, NH; Meredith, NH Posts: 954 Thanks: 263 Thanked 814 Times in 333 Posts	New Rest Areas Planned in Hooksett 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.

10-29-2013, 08:56 AM	#5
ishoot308 Senior Member Join Date: Feb 2008 Location: Gilford, NH / Welch Island Posts: 6,281 Thanks: 2,402 Thanked 5,291 Times in 2,062 Posts	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 __________________ It's Always Sunny On Welch Island!! Last edited by ishoot308; 10-29-2013 at 09:58 AM.

10-29-2013, 09:59 AM	#7
LIforrelaxin Senior Member Join Date: May 2006 Location: Texas, Lake Ray Hubbard and NH, Long Island Winnipesaukee Posts: 2,875 Thanks: 1,037 Thanked 892 Times in 524 Posts	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..... __________________ Life is about how much time you can spend relaxing... I do it on an island that isn't really an island.....

10-29-2013, 01:53 PM	#8
Just Sold Senior Member Join Date: Apr 2004 Location: Suncook, NH, but at The Lake at Heart Posts: 2,615 Thanks: 1,083 Thanked 434 Times in 210 Posts	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. __________________ Just Sold At the lake the stress of daily life just melts away. Pro Re Nata

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10-29-2013, 09:37 AM	#6
Pineedles Senior Member Join Date: Aug 2004 Location: Moultonborough & CT Posts: 2,545 Thanks: 1,072 Thanked 668 Times in 367 Posts	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.

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10-29-2013, 06:11 PM	#10
jeffk Senior Member Join Date: Feb 2004 Location: Center Harbor Posts: 1,172 Thanks: 206 Thanked 437 Times in 253 Posts	Part of this is a state activity 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.

10-29-2013, 06:34 PM	#11
DickR Senior Member Join Date: Apr 2008 Location: Moultonborough Posts: 751 Thanks: 4 Thanked 259 Times in 171 Posts	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.

10-30-2013, 07:52 AM	#13
chipj29 Senior Member Join Date: Apr 2004 Location: Bow Posts: 1,874 Thanks: 521 Thanked 308 Times in 162 Posts	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. __________________ Getting ready for winter!

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11-03-2013, 07:28 AM	#16
PaugusBayFireFighter Senior Member Join Date: Sep 2012 Posts: 837 Thanks: 361 Thanked 674 Times in 264 Posts	I'm sure they took into consideration new developments in Hooksett like the 149,000 sq. ft. Bass Pro Shops that will attract millions of people alone over the next couple of years.

11-18-2013, 06:08 PM	#20
MeredithMan Senior Member Join Date: Aug 2013 Location: Bedford, NH; Meredith, NH Posts: 954 Thanks: 263 Thanked 814 Times in 333 Posts	New Hookset rest areas.... Drove by there this weekend and excavation has begun!

11-21-2013, 01:57 PM	#23
Just Sold Senior Member Join Date: Apr 2004 Location: Suncook, NH, but at The Lake at Heart Posts: 2,615 Thanks: 1,083 Thanked 434 Times in 210 Posts	I was by there today and they are really going at it with clearing and grading. There are now trailers with the rest rooms in them and parking is definately at a premium. __________________ Just Sold At the lake the stress of daily life just melts away. Pro Re Nata

06-11-2014, 10:09 AM	#24
mcdude Senior Member Join Date: Jul 2002 Location: Rock Haven Lake - West Newfield, ME Posts: 5,367 Thanks: 374 Thanked 1,057 Times in 495 Posts	these pics posted today on FB by Bill Hemmill of Lakes Region Aerials First pic is the southbound area and second is the northbound Attached Images __________________

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06-12-2014, 01:39 PM	#25
SIKSUKR Senior Member Join Date: Apr 2004 Posts: 5,075 Thanks: 215 Thanked 903 Times in 509 Posts	Wow, looks like a 4 fold increase at least in square footage. __________________ SIKSUKR

06-12-2014, 02:39 PM	#26
BroadHopper Senior Member Join Date: Oct 2004 Location: Laconia NH Posts: 5,582 Thanks: 3,224 Thanked 1,106 Times in 796 Posts	Cannon Tram car Looks like I found the other gondola. One is at the entrance to the ski museum in Franconia. This will be a nice touch to the Welcome Center! __________________ Someday may never be an actual day.

06-16-2014, 07:36 AM	#27
john60ri Senior Member Join Date: Mar 2009 Location: Pawtucket RI Posts: 146 Thanks: 1 Thanked 22 Times in 16 Posts	Hooksett We will be up there in August. Does anyone know the completion date for this project? Can't wait to see it.

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10-30-2013, 07:50 PM	#33
Just Sold Senior Member Join Date: Apr 2004 Location: Suncook, NH, but at The Lake at Heart Posts: 2,615 Thanks: 1,083 Thanked 434 Times in 210 Posts	It is a very poor comparison to use a 1987 private business venture that was not directly on Interstate 93 and relied on Interstate passers-by leaving the highway and other local patrons for their business. It ultimately failed too. It was also too long ago (26 years) to be used for a comparison. Times have changed and the demographics are not the same today as back in 87. Today it is the State of NH working with a private company to accomplish a goal of a hospitality venue that is directly on and specifically geared to the Interstate 93 traveler. This private company has a long, excellent and proven business track record in the hospitality industry that they bring to the table. Their methods work period and I believe that will make it a win-win situation for everyone. __________________ Just Sold At the lake the stress of daily life just melts away. Pro Re Nata

10-31-2013, 07:06 AM	#34
Happy Gourmand Senior Member Join Date: Jul 2008 Location: Ruskin FL Posts: 1,027 Thanks: 188 Thanked 322 Times in 179 Posts	My thoughts are that this will be a huge success. On any given weekend, the parking lots at the present facilities are jammed with cars full of folks spending money at the liquor stores and the vending machines. And, even if it's only moderately successful, the onus of fiscal risk is squarely on the developer who holds a lease for 35 years and who will be held liable for honoring it in the form of lease payments to the State. (US). This very respected and successful developer is risking a lot of cash and committment to this project's success. He certainly seems to be putting more skin in this game than the State. The State is putting $8 million for liquor stores that are outdated and inadequate and will generate a ton of $$$. Oh, and they will have to plow the snow in the winter. I'm sure the State will have more than that vested in the project, but I think this will be a big win for all.

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10-31-2013, 12:22 PM	#37
jmen24 Senior Member Join Date: Feb 2009 Posts: 1,139 Thanks: 223 Thanked 319 Times in 181 Posts	No Comparison 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!

10-31-2013, 12:54 PM	#38
Bear Islander Senior Member Join Date: Apr 2004 Location: Bear Island Posts: 1,764 Thanks: 32 Thanked 441 Times in 207 Posts	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?

10-31-2013, 02:49 PM	#40
LIforrelaxin Senior Member Join Date: May 2006 Location: Texas, Lake Ray Hubbard and NH, Long Island Winnipesaukee Posts: 2,875 Thanks: 1,037 Thanked 892 Times in 524 Posts	Lets all agree to disagree, I have my view points, you all have yours... the true test will be time. I can counter everyone of your arguments as you can counter everyone of mine... It just is what it is, we will see how it all turns out. __________________ Life is about how much time you can spend relaxing... I do it on an island that isn't really an island.....

10-31-2013, 03:38 PM	#42
BroadHopper Senior Member Join Date: Oct 2004 Location: Laconia NH Posts: 5,582 Thanks: 3,224 Thanked 1,106 Times in 796 Posts	NH Business model Has anyone visit the Liquor Outlet in Nashua? The one behind Christmas Tree shop? That will be the ideal model for the new liquor stores to go in Hooksett. I love the wine and liquor tasting to food cooked in the center court. The store is tastefully designed, with wide aisles. The staff will order liquor that is not in stock. __________________ Someday may never be an actual day.

11-01-2013, 09:35 AM	#44
Lakesrider Senior Member Join Date: Jun 2007 Posts: 2,129 Thanks: 380 Thanked 1,016 Times in 345 Posts	I was just in the Nashua store the other day. Had to get some champagne for a nieces baby shower up in Maine. They have a tax on Booze up there. My Maine relatives always have me shop for them before I go up to Bangor. But, sssshhhhhh.....Don't tell anyone! BTW I noticed there is construction equipment at both of the rest areas and it looks like construction has begun in Hooksett.

11-01-2013, 11:59 AM	#46
Lakesrider Senior Member Join Date: Jun 2007 Posts: 2,129 Thanks: 380 Thanked 1,016 Times in 345 Posts	I remember that and also the fireworks stores were staked out. And let's not forget MA trying to recoup taxes from stores on the MA/NH border? MA was looking to get taxes for things like tires,and hard goods out of places like PEP Boys and even Sears and Jordan's Furniture who was delivering furniture into MA. Bernie and Phil's always openly advertises about saving the MA sales tax, as long as you can take it with you. I know, because I bought stuff up here while living in MA, they would take your money up in Nashua, and the Shrewsbury, MA store delivered the furniture.