The Commonwealth Economic Assistance Coordinating Council [EACC] approved eight projects for participation in the Economic Development Incentive Program [EDIP] and four Vacant Storefront Projects. EACC says the projects are expected to create 212 jobs and retain 1,105 across Massachusetts.
Three of the four Vacant Storefront Projects are in Worcester County. Two are in Webster and another is in Westborough.
Another project in Marlborough received approval as a local incentive project.
Mike’s Crunchies Munchies in Webster
Mike’s Crunchies Munchies operates as a food truck and is opening its first permanent location. It serves appetizers, wings, subs, tenders, and seafood and will add Italian hand-tossed pizza.
The Town of Webster agreed to provide a $10,000 grant and Massachusetts will provide $10,000 in refundable tax credits.
Wine Studio 51 in Webster
Wine Studio 51 is an upscale wine bar with self-serve machines. It will also serve brick oven pizza and specialty chocolates and cheese.
The Town of Webster is providing a $10,000 grant and the business will receive $10,000 in refundable tax credits from the state.
The Coop, Inc. in Westborough
The Coop has operated in Millbury for the past five years. The restaurant serves wings and barbeque along with a variety of sandwiches and appetizers.
The owner of The Coop has also owned and operated Pizza Chef in Millbury for the past 10 years.
The Coop will open a second location in a vacant storefront in Westborough.
They are receiving $10,000 in grants from the Town of Westborough and $10,000 in refundable tax credits from the state.
BJ’s Wholesale Club, Inc. in Marlborough
BJ’s Wholesale Club’s headquarters are currently in Westborough. It intends to lease and renovate approximately 187,825 square feet in two buildings; 168,581 square feet are located at 350 Campus Drive and 19,244 square feet are located at 100 Campus Drive in Marlborough.
The owner of the property will construct a new 120,000 square foot parking structure for BJ’s exclusive use.
The company will retain 800 current employees and make an investment of $36 million. The city of Marlborough plans to approve a 20-year TIF valued at approximately $592,419.
