Maybe.
Trader Joe’s may be coming to the Shops at Stonefield (formerly Albemarle Place). Of course, in December 2005 I wrote “Albemarle Place … is almost upon us.” … “Almost” is a relative term.
From the press release (no longer available): (bolding mine)
Located at the intersection of Hydraulic Road and Route 29, Stonefield will be anchored by a 65,000 square foot Regal Cinema, with 14 screens and stadium seating, making it the largest cinema within a 60 mile radius of Charlottesville. It will also be the only theater in the region offering “the IMAX experience,” an immersive environment that allows viewers to watch movies in 3D.
“From the beginning, a state-of-the-art cinema has been part of our strategic plan as we create the foundation for a signature shopping and entertainment experience,” said Jessica Bruner, Vice President of Leasing for Edens & Avant. “In addition to Regal Cinemas, we are extremely excited to introduce Trader Joe’s to Charlottesville – a specialty grocer that we feel is a perfect fit for such a progressive community.”
Trader Joe’s will be approximately a 12,500 SF store. Along with Regal Cinema, Edens & Avant is also assembling an eclectic mix of regional retailers and restaurants that will be characteristic of theCharlottesville community.
No word in the press release as to what, if any, transportation or transit improvements will be offered.
Bets now being taken as to when they:
– actually break ground
– open the doors
– say they will do transportation improvements
Albemarle Place’s on again, off again development looks like it’s going to be on again. Breaking ground this Spring.
Update: The HooK notes the same press release (no longer available).
Interested in Learning More?
Jim Duncan has been helping buyers and sellers in Charlottesville’s neighborhoods for 25 years. Get local insight born of experience.
Dig Deeper
Thoughts on 2026 Albemarle County Assessments
Albemarle County assessments increased again in 2026. Want to challenge your assessment? Here's the form. Curious about FAQs about Albemarle County assessments, here's the FAQ. Think your assessment is too high or too low? Ask me; I'm happy to give a quick thought or two.…
When Will Homes Come on the Market in Charlottesville and Albemarle in 2026?
When will homes come on the market in Charlottesville and Albemarle in 2026? The Charlottesville real estate cycle has bee fairly consistent over the years. In 2023, I wrote a similar story to this one. The biggest two changes between 2023 and 2026* are: interest…
Developers Have Long-Term Vision
Developers think and plan long-term. Generally. An example. Many years ago, I represented sellers of a piece up land up 29 North. It was a relatively small piece of land, and we received an offer pretty quickly for asking price. About twenty years later, all…
Who Knew HOAs Could be Progressive? No Woodstoves?
No woodstoves in your neighborhood? Woodstoves. No woodstove (including free-standing and fireplace insert) shall be installed, maintained or used on any Lot. Read the HOA packages, folks. My clients found this when they read the HOA docs. There's often some interesting things in homeowner association…