Plans for Trader Joe's to move into Murrieta are one step closer, City of Murrieta spokesperson Dominique Samario confirmed with Patch Friday.
Trader Joe's officials have eyed a spot for a new store at the Murrieta Plaza Shopping Center at 40388 Murrieta Hot Springs Road, Samario confirmed.
The grocery store would replace the former Office Max location in the shopping center anchored by Sam's Club. Office Max closed at that location before the pandemic, according to the city.
"This is incredibly exciting for Murrieta," said Samario. "Trader Joe's is one of our top requested businesses. Our residents have to drive to Temecula to shop there, and we look forward to everyone in unincorporated areas coming to this location when it opens." The city is always trying to connect our residents with businesses that they most want to see, she said.
According to the economic development team, Murrieta has actively pursued a Trader Joe’s in Murrieta for more than 10 years.
"We're really excited and happy for our residents that we have this very desired grocery store for our residents.
So, what's next? How long will it take the Trader Joe's to open in Murrieta?
Once a business decides to come to the area, they begin the planning process, submitting plans, and then the city returns with any comments, according to Samario.
"From there, it's a business decision with the property owner and landlord, but our goal is always to work to connect businesses that we believe should be in Murrieta with places that should be successful," she said.
The development services team will review the tenant improvement plans since they are occupying a space built out for general retail and converting into a market.
The team will confirm that their improvements comply with the building code, ADA accessibility, energy sufficiency, and general public safety, among other things, according to the city.
As of this week, there is no start date for work at the location or a target opening date for the Murrieta Trader Joe's location, but the enthusiasm with residents is high.
Residents in Murrieta are also asking for more restaurant options and the possibility of an Ikea store. More than one resident has asked after the arrival of an Ikea in the area, according to Samario.
For now, residents were pleased with the long-awaited Trader Joe's arriving in their city.
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