Newport News, Va. - Some people living in Newport News are concerned about a new Wegmans Food Market coming to the city.
“I’m definitely all for Wegmans,” resident April Acosta said. “I know the new Whole Foods store just got here. I think Wegmans will definitely wipe it out. I know this area is full of traffic, but the Wegmans is definitely awesome.”
Called The Plaza at Jefferson, the developer wants to add six additional building spaces along with the Wegmans.
Some people aren’t on board with that plan.
“It could increase the city’s bottom line, the tax base," says James Temple, who lives in the area. "But you still, also, have to think about the people who live here. You’re looking at an increase in accidents. Everything from pollution levels to just whose coming here for all the wrong reasons."
A major concern is the increase in traffic.
“It’s kinda busy,” Priscillia McFarland said. “Throughout the day but mainly between 4, 5, and 6:00 p.m when people are getting off.”
City officials say the traffic shouldn’t be a problem.
Part of the project involves road improvements.
This includes extending Habersham Drive to connect with Brick Kiln Boulevard.
City leaders hope to have the plaza ready for customers in 2018.
“I’m glad that they’re thinking in terms of economic development but I ’d really like to see them balance it. Right now, I think we’re over-saturated,” Temple said.
Until improvements are complete, residents says they’ll just continue with the long waits and constant stops in everyday traffic.
Before construction can begin the area needs to be rezoned for commercial development.
Officials are expected to vote on that later this month.
