Trader Joe’s is Coming to Charlottesville! (Maybe)

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.