EDGEWATER — It still remains to be seen what will become of the former El Norte space at 5600 N. Ridge Ave., but one thing is for sure — it won't be a Trader Joe's.
Alison Mochizuk, a representative for the company, confirmed Thursday that opening a store at that space is " not in our [two] year plan at this time."
In fact, the most recent building permit for the Cedar St. commercial and residentially-owned property shows the first floor is slated to house not one, but three retail spaces. Apartments above are already being rented by Cedar's retail component, FLATS Chicago.
Eric Turrin, a leasing agent with Cedar St. assigned to the property, said nothing has been finalized yet, but he is "close with a few concepts."
Residents have been eager to find out what is gearing up to set up shop in the corner storefront, and Dan Luna, assistant to Ald. Harry Osterman (48th), has hinted during community meetings the development will be something "people are very excited about," but would leave it to property owners to make any announcements.
Far North Siders have asked for a Trader Joe's for years — and in 2013 almost got one.
But late in the game, developers eyeing a spot at the now strip-mall at 5206 N. Broadway for the grocery store pulled away from the plan.
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