Vernon Subway-Shell-Dunkin' Ribbon-Cutting Turns into Party

VERNON, CT — Friday's grand re-opening of the Shell-Dunkin' Donuts-Subway complex on Route 83 turned into a parking lot party featuring free samples, giveaways, cheap gas and a whole new look for three businesses that share one location in the center of Vernon.

The business is located at the intersection of Route 83 and Regan and Center roads. The gas station, once pumping Citgo, is now a sparkling new Shell station, still with a convenience store.

The Subway and Dunkin' Donuts had remained open during the recent renovations, but the owners welcomes the changes.

Tracy Neves, whose family owns 18 area Dunkin' stores, said it was the last of the local stores to be fitted with up-to-date facilities — including a few seats.

Mayor Daniel Champagne kicked off the festivities by presiding over a ceremonial ribbon-cutting.

Gas station owners then brought the fun to another level by offering regular unleaded gas for $1.99 per gallon for a couple of hours.

Photo Credit: Chris Dehnel