A crew works Friday on the exterior of the new Athens Popeyes restaurant. The store, under construction at the intersection of U.S. 72 and Houston Street, is scheduled to open in late May.

Anyone with a craving for spicy New Orleans-inspired eats from Popeyes shouldn’t have to wait much longer — an Athens location is set to open in May.

The 62-seat store is being built at the intersection of U.S. 72 and Houston Street, adjacent to KFC and between Taco Bell and Arby’s.

“We’re right there in the community, and that’s where we need to be,” said franchisee Wendy Land, who will own and operate the store with her husband, Brian Land.

The store has a fluid opening date of May 21. Wendy Land acknowledged work on the project was “moving fast” and she and Brian were looking forward to its completion.

The restaurant’s shell appears completely finished, with the exception of the facade. Windows and doors have also been installed.

More importantly, the Lands have started the hiring process. Three managers have been hired so far and will soon travel to Mississippi to begin training. Wendy Land said a total of 60 to 75 part-time and full-time hourly workers would be hired.

Those interested in applying for managerial positions should send resumes to popeyesathensal@gmail.com.