Demolition began last week on the corner of Grand River Avenue and Northwind Drive, clearing the way for a new Trader Joe’s.
It will be approximately 13,500 square feet and includes 2.2 acres of property.
The development is a full demolition of previously existing businesses including the restaurant Golden Wok.
Demolition permits were approved March 4 and full construction should begin this year weather permitting, according to the township’s website.
The township’s Director of Community Planning and Development Tim Schmitt said that the project could be completed in 2023. The developer needs to finalize its approvals with the county and building permit review. After that, the township can issue a building permit to begin construction so a date has not been set to begin construction.
Schmitt said the process should be relatively smooth.
Nakia Rohde, spokesperson for Trader Joe’s, said the company has a strong interest in opening a store in the area, but no timeline as of yet. Schmitt also said the company has not shared construction timing with the township yet.
The developer is SH G2755 LLC & Green Peak Industries, Inc., according to documents from the township. Neighborhoods & Economic Development Director Amber Clark said this developer has experience in bringing projects to the Lansing region and has been in the Lansing region for 30 plus years.
“For the last decade, they have been attracting the Trader Joe’s project to the Lansing region,” Clark said. “And the location that they selected was a location that fit within the Trader Joe’s market as well as available space that the developer could purchase.”
Clark said the store will employ between 20 to 40 people and that Trader Joe’s generally likes to employ people from the community.
“Trader Joe’s is a strong attraction,” Clark said. “I know multiple municipalities — Meridian, East Lansing, Lansing, Delta Township — all of the regional, fast moving townships in the area have wanted an attractive regional grocer. We’ve brought in Whole Foods, we’ve brought in Costco. And so Trader Joe’s is another one of those strong following grocers that meets our current market.”