By JAMES BELL
Hays Post

After the announcement A&W would be returning to Hays after a decades-long absence, close observers have surely noticed the conversion at the Long John Silver’s, 3380 Vine, into a combination of both chains is nearly complete. Property owner Eric Estes announced this weekend the location is expected to open soon.

“Our construction/renovation is finally complete and we are now in the process of hiring and training for the opening launch of the A&W in the end of this month” Estes said in an email. “Management training is being completed in the A&W in Wichita for the Hays team while the A&W corporate training team is scheduled in Hays to assist our grand opening team.”

As part of the opening celebration, Estes said the first 100 guests on opening day will receive a free collectors A&W mug — a company tradition.

The renovations at the location are being handled by local contractors including Jerry Befort of JB Enterprises, Chris Dinkel, who worked as an architect and in construction, Leon’s Plumbing and Heating, Ralph’s Electric, Pepsi Beverages, and C&N Plumbing.

“We are very excited to bring this great 1919 A&W Brand to Hays, Kansas, once again,” Estes said.