Addition Of New Meijer Store Would Help With Rebuilding Detroit

Most big retailers left the city for the suburbs long ago, forcing Detroiters to drive further than most others to do their shopping.

But all that could soon change.

The developers of the long-delayed Gateway Marketplace Project, at Woodward and 8 Mile, have reportedly told Detroit officials that Meijer is expected to sign a lease by the end of July.

The news has definitely created a buzz in Motown.

Now that we could be right here in our area to go shop, it builds our property value," says Detroiter Kimberly Smith. "I love it."

However, a Meijer spokesperson told Fox 2's Alexis Wiley the chain has wanted to open a store at that location for years, but has set no timetable as to when that will happen.

The fact that the space has been left vacant for so long is proof of that.

Meijer wouldn't comment on whether they intend to sign the deal this summer. Their project manager didn't immediately return Fox 2's phone calls.

Still, many Detroiters are hoping Meijer will make the move soon - and bring other businesses with it.