An update on plans to build a new grocery store and retail plaza have been presented to the Town of Petawawa. Council reviewed the document on Monday night (June 13th, 2022).
The detailed drawing shows the grocery store would be just over 27,000 square feet and located off of Petawawa Boulevard at the corner of Town Centre Boulevard and Canadian Forces Drive, across the road from the Hyska’s Your Independent Grocer. Another nine retail spaces are also laid out in the site plan ranging from 3,000 to 15,00 square feet in size.
Council originally approved the plans back in 2014, but 8-years later the land remains vacant. Several weeks ago, the developer contacted the town about moving their file forward.
Town Planner Karen Cronier has indicated the developer is looking to start construction on the new Food Basics grocery store in October with a grand opening by the spring of 2023.
Petawawa Mayor Bob Sweet says in 2014 when the original agreement was made, the town expected commercial development would move ahead within one year. The Mayor says this is something the community needs.
Councillor Theresa Sabourin says this is very exciting news adding residents have stated time and time again the need for other options.
Deputy Mayor Gary Serviss and Councillor James Carmody said they are cautiously optimistic about the opening of the new grocery store.
At this time only the grocery store is expected to be developed and the additional land may be divided up for additional development in the future.
(written by: Rudy Kadlec)
