Gridlock Alert As Popeyes Prepares to Open

Bob Joseph/WNBF News [file][/caption]The opening of the region's first Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen restaurant has the potential to cause traffic congestion on a section of Main Street on Binghamton's West Side.

The business had been expected to open on December 15 but some minor issues pushed back the start of operations.

Shahid Imran, a partner in the company which will operate the restaurant, told WNBF News it now appears the opening will take place on Monday or Tuesday.

Imran said there were a few "little glitches" in setting up equipment at the restaurant but "nothing major."

The initial hiring for the business was completed this week. Imran said he now anticipates between 50 and 60 people will be employed by the restaurant when its opening occurs.

Imran said he's not disappointed by the delay in getting things underway at the Binghamton site. He said it's important to give first-time visitors "a good impression" so they'll want to return.

Imran said he's "expecting a big crowd" for the opening and for the days immediately after.

Binghamton police officers have said they anticipate significant traffic congestion and possible delays when Popeyes starts selling its chicken and other menu items.

The opening of the region's first Sonic Drive-In in the town of Chenango in July 2009 resulted in some traffic problems for days around its Upper Front Street site.