The City of Birmingham is taking a big step to improve access to healthy food in Southwest Birmingham. Recently, Mayor Randall L. Woodfin’s team announced a plan to partner with Carver Jones Market, LLC to open a new grocery store at 833 Dennison Avenue Southwest. This location used to be a Save A Lot grocery store and will be revamped to serve the community better.
This new store will cover about 10,000 square feet and aim to offer a wide range of products—fresh fruits, vegetables, meats, dairy, snacks, and even a pharmacy. The goal? To make healthy and affordable food more accessible for residents nearby.
Crystal Smitherman, a Birmingham City Councilor, emphasized that this initiative is crucial not just for health, but also for boosting the local economy. The store is expected to create around 30 jobs, providing opportunities in a community that needs it.
To support this project, the City will invest up to $850,000. This includes $600,000 directed specifically at building infrastructure to support healthy food access. Additionally, there is a potential sales tax rebate of up to $125,000 per year, showing the city’s commitment to tackling food deserts and revitalizing underserved neighborhoods.
Coreata Houser, the City’s Director of Innovation and Economic Opportunity, expressed excitement about filling a crucial need in the area. He explained that this grocery store is more than just a market; it’s a step towards enriching the community and ensuring that families have quality options close to home.
The Carver Jones Market is set to open in the first half of 2026 and will be a key part of the Heritage Park Towne Center. This project aims to breathe new life into the neighborhood and improve the overall quality of life for local residents.
Experts underline the importance of grocery stores like this in areas that lack food accessibility. According to the USDA, communities with limited supermarkets often struggle with higher rates of obesity, diabetes, and other health issues due to a lack of fresh food options. The success of this market could serve as a model for similar initiatives across the country.
When it opens, local residents are encouraged to support the store. Their patronage will be vital in keeping nutritious options available and thriving in the community.
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