ANNAPOLIS, Md. (AP) — Gov. Larry Hogan is announcing the reopening of tourist welcome centers in far western Maryland and the Eastern Shore that the previous administration closed six years ago.

Hogan said in a statement Thursday that the Youghiogheny (yahk-ih-GAY’-nee) Overlook center in Garrett County and the Bay Country center in Queen Anne’s County will be open Thursdays through Mondays from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

The Republican governor says workers at the centers provide a critical service to the tourism industry by informing visitors about Maryland’s unique attractions.

Liz Fitzsimmons, managing director of the state tourism office, says they also tell visitors about local restaurants and shops.

The western Maryland center is located along Interstate 68 near the state line. The Bay Country center is on U.S. 301 near Centreville.