Hardee’s announces opening date in Newton

A new sign popping up at the future Hardee’s location signals when the fast food restaurant will be open for business. A late spring 2018 opening date has been projected for Hardee’s, almost two years after the franchise announced its plans to build in Newton.

“The Hardee’s franchisee who will be building in Newton, Westar Foods, will be opening two new restaurants this year that were ahead of ours on their schedule,” city administrator Matt Muckler said. “It’s our understanding that Westar will begin construction on their Newton Hardee’s in early spring, with a late spring opening, likely June.”

The project started after the city purchased the former Juice and Junk building and property at 1205 W. 19th St. S. for $550,000 in March 2016. The former gas station/convenience store building had been mostly vacant for more than 10 years and presented a poor image at the Interstate 80 exit 164, which serves as a primary entrance to the city.

In June 2016, it was announced that 4G Properties of Colorado purchased the approximately 1.2 acres for $100,000 with plans to open the new eatery. The amount was later reduced to $80,000 due to additional preparation costs following pre-construction surveys.

In total, the investment from 4G is proposed at more than $1 million. The company is planning to build an upscale-type restaurant along with accompanying signage and landscaping.

The council is hoping the construction of the new restaurant will spur the redevelopment of the rest of the site, which totals approximately 10.49 acres.

Contact Jamee A. Pierson at 641-792-3121 ext. 6534 or jpierson@newtondailynews.com