Development project bringing ‘new era’ to Stephenville, along with Chick-fil-A and McAlister’s Deli.

By SARA VANDEN BERGE

City manager Allen Barnes said a large development project called The Stable is opening a “new era in Stephenville” and bringing with it two popular restaurants you guys are going to love!

Chick-fil-A and McAlister’s Deli will be among the first restaurants to open at the new site, located across from Walmart.

“We are excited that we are able to bring a development that will open a new era in Stephenville,” Barnes told Beneath the Surface News. “We have been working with the development company for at least five years and without the countless hours put in by the city council, city staff and SEDA, this development would not have happened.” Barnes said infrastructure is expected to begin in a matter of days, and once complete this summer, construction on the new restaurants will begin.

The multi-pad development project is located at W. Washington Street and Wolfe Nursery Road and has plenty of space for more retailers/restaurants. (So stay tuned for more exciting news.)

“This project has taken many twists and turns to get to this point, yet we are confident this version will complement Stephenville’s growth,” Mayor Doug Svien said. “Most importantly we will get another high-quality development without additional tax burden.”

Jeff Sandford, executive director of the Stephenville Economic Development Authority, said he is proud of the collaboration it has taken to get the project off the ground.

“Statistical data indicates that Americans are spending more in restaurants than in grocery stores, yet Stephenville loses a significant amount of these dollars to other communities,” Sandford said. “The Stable development will help address this concern while continuing to elevate the Stephenville experience for our citizens and visitors.”

Chick-fil-A doesn’t really need an introduction because it’s one of the fastest-growing fast food chains in the country with 2,774 restaurants in 47 states.

Known for its friendly staff (and staying closed on Sundays), the restaurant is popular for its chicken sandwiches. (I’m a fan of the spicy!)

McAlister’s Deli is equally delicious.

The restaurant chain has more than 350 locations in 29 states and is known for its soups, salads and amazing handcrafted sandwiches.

City councilman Ricky Thurman called the project and incoming restaurants a win-win for everyone.

“The strong interest we continue to see in companies wanting to invest in Stephenville is exciting,” Thurman said. “We’re getting the goods and services people want and keeping more dollars and jobs at home.”

City councilman Brandon Huckabee (who is also running for Erath County judge) said the city is open for business.

“This development will have a large economic impact for all of Erath County,” Huckabee said. “It’s another great day in Stephenville, Texas!”