Kroger announced on Jan. 31 that they will close the location at 1822 S. Limestone St. on March 4.
RELATED: Community meeting scheduled to discuss Kroger closure
Officials are concerned about the closures impact on the community, and are working to find solutions.
“As community leaders, it’s our job to continually strike a balance between supporting neighborhood businesses and the interest of the public,” said McDorman. “In this case, we have an established community grocer that is changing its business model, and residents who depend on the services they currently provide. We are committed to finding a solution that everyone can get behind.”
Another concern is the closure will create a food desert in part of the community.
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“In addition to jobs that will be lost with the Kroger closure, there is also a question of transportation,” said Heck. “A number of residents in the surrounding neighborhoods currently walk to the Kroger store, and just don’t have the means to travel to other locations to shop.”
Kroger has said that employees at the South Limestone location will be offered jobs at other Springfield locations, the release says.
Heck and McDorman said they are in talks with stakeholders, and a public forum is scheduled for 7 p.m. on Feb. 18.
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