Article Photos

A West Virginia Division of Tourism welcome center soon may temporarily occupy a space at The Highlands.

Randy Wharton, Ohio County Development Authority member and Ohio County commissioner, said Wednesday the agency is planning to close its welcome center near Dallas Pike along Interstate 70 for renovations.

During that time, the agency plans to rent for a year the former Starbucks coffee shop space at the retail site, located just off I-70 near Dallas Pike.

The Highlands Starbucks closed July 27, 2008, when the coffee company decided to shut down 600 other stores across the nation.

The storefront has remained empty since.

During that time, a Starbucks inside the Ohio Valley Mall in St. Clairsville was expected to close, but it did not.

A Starbucks outside the mall also still is open, along with one inside a Target store at The Highlands.

Wharton said he did not know details of the arrangement, such as the monthly fee, but he believes the final agreement still may have to be approved by the OCDA board.

"I have no idea on the rent. I know they're paying rent," Wharton said.

"We're looking to develop that parcel a little further," Wharton added of storefront's future.

The former Starbucks is located in a building that currently houses Cold Stone Creamery and Quiznos sub shop.