ROANOKE, Va. – There’s a new grocery store that’s finally open in Melrose Plaza in Roanoke.
It’s called Market on Melrose and it’s been open for almost 2 months.
This grocery store has been a staple to the community and was previously known as a food desert.
10 News took at look inside when it first opened and now we are back months later to tell you how it’s doing. (Market on Melrose Opens in Northwest Roanoke, Providing Much-Needed Resource for the Community)
Goodwill Industries of the Valley Vice President of Operations Angie Stanfill said they have received thousands of people so far at the store.
They’ve also received great feedback.
There’s a mix of options for anyone who hasn’t been here yet. However, many people say they want to see more organic options.
Stanfill said it’s great the store is here though.
“Having this here in this community I think is transformational and you know with the continuation of Henrietta’s Café and the other things we’ll be offering through Melrose Plaza I think it’s gonna transform this community,” said Stanfill.
Many people like the store as well.
“I like the idea that there is a variety that we can find and use and i buy here and i live on the other side of town so it’s kindof great that i can do it on my way home from work and still support the neighborhood,” said Walter Williams.
James Mitchell has also been here a few times and likes the store.
“It’s very convenient and it’s time for this community to have support for something that is very positive and is needed in the area. They’ve got some good deals,” said Mitchell.
However, he would like to see some fresh fish like there was on opening day.
Several other projects are set to open this year as well in Melrose Plaza area including a bank, wellness center and an adult high school.
The Excel Center, which is the adult high school, will recruit students in the Spring and is set to open in the Fall.
The Bank of Botetourt will open in the spring and Goodwill is still trying to figure out a date to open the wellness center. There are no exact dates for the three opening yet. However, each will have their own separate opening this year.
“We want to make sure that we can address some of those issues that are plaguing the community such as access to food such as access to education and show that individuals can make informed decisions and healthy choices as well as being able to improve their life expectancy and the wellbeing of individuals as well as families,” said Goodwill Industry of the Valley’s Vice President of Advancement Zenith Barrett
Goodwill Industry of the Valley is also hiring people for the bank, wellness center, and adult high school. The company hopes to hire about 70 people.
The Market on Melrose is also still seeking employees.