The new Lidl in University City | Photo: Lidl
Sept. 27. By Dave Yochum. Lidl’s journey in the US apparently no longer includes Cornelius. The developer of Alexander Farms confirmed yesterday that the German grocer will no longer anchor the retail segment of the 55-acre mixed-use project at Westmoreland and West Catawba.
Lidl did not respond for comment.
With inflation a factor across demographics, shoppers are searching for more affordable grocery options so it’s unclear why Lidl will bypass 28031 where arch-rival Aldi has also opened a limited selection discount store.
McInerney
“We fully intend to pursue and secure a new grocer anchor. Hopefully, something even better as this community deserves the best,” said Jesse McInerney, a principal at Win Development, the developer of Alexander Farms.
There was no confirmation whether Trader Joe’s is among the prospects.
Lidl was to go in a dedicated 29,000 square-foot building that will back up to West Catawba, with the entry facing a plaza and parking on the eastern side.
—A source in commercial development said retail, including restaurants, was struggling.
Tenant house
The historic tenant house will be placed on a foundation closer to the intersection of Westmoreland and West Catawba and restored.
“We remain committed to the restoration of the tenant house and hope to see that happening soon,” McInerney said.
Single-family homes
The River Rock single-family homes are under construction on the northern side of the project and roads are going in.
Build-out value of Alexander Farms is in excess of $110 million.
So much detail, so many comments…
If we don’t have a grocer then please bring back the plans for the firehouse. It will be needed with all the new residential and commercial developement.
Trader Joe’s has already said they have no plans for North Meck.
Have you considered Wegman’s?
As far as the tenant house, it will probably fall apart before it gets a permanent foundation. It seems likes every time I go by the house it warps a little more and another board gets blown off.
I hope it survived Helene.
Posted by James | September 27, 2024, 12:40 pmThis is the most nonsensical comment. Don’t lie about Trader Joe’s and if you don’t live Alexander farms, do not comment about the stupidity of putting a firehouse here. Absolutely out of touch and selfish. They confirmed another Grocer will be here. Whether it is Trader Joe’s or something else remains to be seen but the people around this area want Trader Joe’s, not a firehouse. How dare you bring up something that will clog the streets and cause even more trouble for people here. An alarmist you are, comparing the desires of people here to having their house burn down. How dare you.
Posted by Steve | November 11, 2024, 11:45 amJames S … What are you thinking? As a direct neighbor to Alexander Farms, we have already lost almost every tree (leaving no shade and increased noise from I-77), will stare at cookie cutter (all one color) single family rentals, and will end up with excessive light pollution from street and parking lot lights. Now you want us to listen to fire trucks at all hours of the day and night? Apparently you don’t live close to Alexander Farms.
Posted by Michael | September 27, 2024, 5:48 pmNo, I don’t live near Alexander Farms.
With no widening of W. Catawba, no exit at Westmorland and no help on Statesville Rd. would you rather listen to sirens or have your house burn down from lack of a firehouse close by?
Posted by James | September 29, 2024, 10:06 amPlease consider Trader Joe’s for this location. It would be a great addition to Cornelius.
Posted by Debra Walsh | September 27, 2024, 7:02 pmTrader Joe’s!!! We need some variety in this town We already have two of every grocery store We need a boutique type grocer for some variety.
Posted by Donna Winter | September 29, 2024, 10:01 am