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Q: I have two questions as someone who has followed the Co-op for probably 5 years at this point: 1. During the pandemic, a location was secured, and financial goals reached, to open up. Suddenly, this fell through, and the fundraising goals were seemingly reset or expanded to the incredibly lofty goal of financing not just a grocery store, but a commercial space underneath a 7-story apartment complex in the middle of historic Cambodia town? Why? 2. This grocery store will be located directly across the street from Kim Long Market, an Asian grocery store and semi local institution that has clientele of mostly elderly people. How will this location impact Kim Long Market and how will parking be available? A: You present some very well thought out questions. I believe you may be referring to the Beacon building which was on deck during the pandemic. The perils of building a grocery store in an existing location presents many obstacles. In this case, we were promised the infrastructure needed was do-able. However, the reality is the necessary venting was engineeringly impossible. We were led down a path of one of many predatory real estate practices. A very emotional and valuable lesson learned. The location of the new site is within one block of the Beacon. And, although the site is in an early phase, it is being developed by an original LBGCo-op board member that is putting the needs of a grocery store into the infrastructure and construction of this site. This will generate a cost saving benefit over retrofitting an existing building. We certainly recognize the importance Kim Long Market is to their clientele and do not feel the presence of the Co-op will reduce or negatively impact this market. It is important to recognize that LGBCo-op will be drawing additional business to the area and adding a compliment to the food choices. Parking is a chronic issue throughout the City and there will be parking allotted to the Co-op. We are also accessible via public transportation and walking distance to many residences. Bonus, the new residences in the building provide even more shoppers for both establishments.
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