Aldi coming to US 82 and Grand?

Apr. 13—Developers are working with the city to bring new retail business to the east side.

Gainesville Economic Development Corporation (GEDC), in collaboration with the city of Gainesville, told the Register this week that Verdad Real Estate Development wants to redevelop the southeast corner of U.S. 82 and Grand Avenue. This location was chosen for multiple reasons, including proximity to multiple major roadways as well as to the residential area within walking distance.

"Most retailers really want to be at the corner of Main and Main, which is essentially that intersection in Gainesville," said William Myers, Executive Director of the GEDC. "They want to be in proximity to residential and be closer to the customers that they want to serve ... 82 and Grand is one of the most attractive corners in town, and it is very underdeveloped."

The GEDC and developers are currently in discussions with several brands interested in participating in the redevelopment, including Aldi, McDonalds and 7-11; however, no official commitments have been made.

"Redevelopment is one of the top priorities in the Gainesville 2023 Economic Development Plan," said Myers in a press release from the GEDC. "Through strategic partnerships and innovative planning with reputable developers, opportunities like this one with Verdad Real Estate Development will continue to encourage strategic revitalization in Gainesville."

Verdad is a large development company based in Southlake. It was not the initial developer involved with the project. However, after the previous developer had to step back due to personal reasons, Verdad was contacted by the engineer to sign on.

The project is still in early stages, and if all goes smoothly, it will still likely be around November or December before any action on-site is occurring.

Part of the plan includes purchasing some of the already present businesses, including Brannan Auto Sales, Victory Automotive and the vape shop, and removing them to make room for the new businesses.

"There are a couple of little gravel driveways going into some of those businesses," said Myers. "You get rid of those ... concrete drives, you'd have landscaping, very nice landscaping ... The sidewalks would be at least four feet wide ... It's not pedestrian friendly at that intersection."

"We are excited about the potential for this redevelopment project and its impact on the overall growth and prosperity of our community," said Barry Sullivan, City Manager of the City of Gainesville. "It's a great next step in improving the entryways into our city as we clean up the corridor."

The GEDC said in a press release, "Gainesville aims to create a dynamic destination that will attract both residents and businesses to the area. The project will help make the city more attractive for travelers on Highway 82, encouraging them to stop, refuel, and stay a while within city limits. The extra activity ... could also help keep local taxes lower for residents."

"Hopefully everything works out and we can keep the neighborhood happy," said Myers. "We've met with some of the property owners and they've given recommendations, and we're trying to accommodate those, and we're just hopeful that it comes out to something people are proud of."

For more information about the proposed redevelopment plan and ongoing revitalization efforts in Gainesville, contact Myers at 940-665-5241, william@gainesvilletxedc.com or Sullivan at 940-668-4500, bsullivan@cogtx.org.