Merrimack Valley Pavilion Expected To Open In November

With each passing day, Gary Brown's vision for the property at 2087 Main St. is becoming closer to reality.

Some time in November, Brown is expecting to open Merrimack Valley Pavilion, a family-friendly recreation complex featuring a multi-level laser tag arena, a miniature golf course and an arcade. The complex will also feature a snack bar.

"We’re hoping to be completed (construction) in early November," said Brown. " And then with time (to acquire the) occupancy permit. Hopefully we'll be open soon after that."

The property, which had once been the home to the New England Grand Prix go-cart track, had been vacant for many years. Brown bought the property from a bank in September 2011 and in February 2012 he submitted his plans for Merrimack Valley Pavilion to the Planning Board.

Not only did Brown completely renovate the existing 5,000 square foot building, he put on a 4,000 square foot addition.

Brown says that in some ways the facility will be unique in New England. In addition to being multi-level, the laser tag arena will be themed, though he hasn't yet revealed what that theme is.

"This will be as close to a Disney-type themed arena as you would hope to get in New England.

Likewise, the mini-golf has a fun "tropical island" theme, including a running river and even "geysers."

The sports cafe will seat 70-80 people and will feature plasma TVs, ice cream … make your own sundaes, frozen yogurt, pizza chicken fingers and fries. There will also be an outdoor seating area.

Brown has already begun the process of hiring a staff at MVP, having interviewed "close to 80" candidates. He expects to carry a staff of around 25 people.

"The tough part is I'd love to hire everybody but you can't," said Brown, who added that his staff will be made up largely of high school students. "We'll probably do two waves of hires. We'll do the first wave for the opening but then in 9 or 10 months when some of these kids are going off to college, we'll do a second wave."

For more information on the Merrimack Valley Pavilion, you can follow them on Facebook by clicking here. The MVP web site is www.playatMVP.com and should go live in next week or two, said Brown.