For those clamoring for a restaurant in Bridgeport and, in particular in the White Oaks development along Interstate 79, there’s some really good news. Developer John Mosesso confirmed that an official agreement has been signed that will be bringing a national chain to Bridgeport; and it’s one many have heard of before.

 

Welcome to Bridgeport TGI Fridays.

 

“We reviewed the agreement (Tuesday) and everything looks fine. Fridays is on their way to Bridgeport,” said Mosesso.

 

The addition of the new eatery helps fill a void that the head of the White Oaks – Woody Thrasher – has talked about for the last few years. Thrasher has an iHop, Subway and Sheetz on site, but was hoping more eateries would locate at the sprawling and massively growing development along the interstate and on Jerry Dove Drive.

 

“This area in particular needed a restaurant in a bad way,” said Mosesso, who is no stranger to the business as the operator of Lil’ Moe’s in Philippi. “We felt if we could get this deal done that if Fridays came here it would work.”

 

Mosesso said officials from TGI Fridays came down and looked at the location at White Oaks. They were impressed with the area and believed there was a key to success.

 

“They told us they were certain we would get the dinner business, but they told us to make it successful we had to capture the lunch business,” said Mosesso. “We are certain we can draw a lunch crowd. There is so much traffic directly off the interstate and then you have such a large number of people that work at White Oaks that we think this will be a hit.”

 

The new restaurant will front along I-79. Mosesso said it will be clearly visible for those traveling. He said work should begin in the very near future and the opening, although an exact date hasn’t been determined, is not too far into the future.

 

“We’re looking at fall of this year,” said Mosesso. “We’re very excited about this and feel good that we’ll have the support of the community.”

 

Editor's Note: Bottom photo shows are where motorists will soon be able to see the new TGI Fridays.