A familiar face in the Kansas City, Kansas, grocery scene is planning a return to the downtown core. Santa Fe Grocers, a locally-owned market known for its focus on fresh produce and community engagement, intends to open a new location in the space previously occupied by the Merc Co+op. The potential arrival of a grocery store in the area has been closely watched by residents, as access to fresh food options has been a concern since the Merc Co+op’s closure.
Owner Chris Lemmer, a longtime Kansas City, Kansas resident, confirmed his plans for the downtown store, aiming to fill a critical need for residents. The Merc Co+op, a community-owned grocery store, closed its doors at 701 N. 7th St. In early 2023 after nearly five decades in business. Its absence left a void in the neighborhood, particularly for those without reliable transportation to larger supermarkets.
Addressing a Food Desert
The area surrounding 7th Street in downtown KCK has been identified as a food desert, meaning residents have limited access to affordable and nutritious food. Lemmer recognizes this challenge and intends to position Santa Fe Grocers as a solution. “We want to be a neighborhood store, a place where people can walk or bike to get what they need,” he said in an interview with FOX4KC. The new store will prioritize fresh produce, meat and pantry staples, with an emphasis on locally sourced products whenever possible. This commitment to local sourcing aligns with Santa Fe Grocers’ existing practices at its other locations.
Santa Fe Grocers currently operates stores at 1517 Lewis Ave. And 8000 W 75th St. In Kansas City, Kansas. The Lewis Avenue location, in particular, has become a cornerstone of the Rosedale neighborhood, known for its diverse selection and community-focused events. Lemmer hopes to replicate that success in the downtown location, creating a welcoming space that serves as a gathering point for residents.
Timeline and Store Details
While a firm opening date hasn’t been announced, Lemmer anticipates beginning renovations on the 7th Street space in the coming weeks. The project will involve updating the existing infrastructure and tailoring the layout to suit Santa Fe Grocers’ operational needs. He estimates the store could open its doors to the public within several months, pending permits and construction progress. The size of the new store will be approximately 8,000 square feet, according to reports.
The plans for the downtown store go beyond simply providing groceries. Lemmer envisions offering prepared foods, potentially including a deli counter and a little cafe area. He also intends to partner with local organizations to host community events and workshops, further solidifying the store’s role as a neighborhood hub. This approach reflects Santa Fe Grocers’ broader philosophy of supporting the communities it serves.
Community Reaction and Support
News of Santa Fe Grocers’ plans has been met with enthusiasm from local residents and community leaders. The Unified Government of Wyandotte County/Kansas City, Kansas, has expressed its support for the project, recognizing the positive impact it will have on the downtown area. Several community organizations have also reached out to Lemmer to explore potential partnerships and collaborations.
“Having a grocery store within walking distance will make a huge difference for so many people,” said one resident who lives near 7th Street. “It’s not just about convenience; it’s about access to healthy food and a sense of community.” The closure of the Merc Co+op highlighted the importance of local grocery options, and residents are eager to welcome a new store that shares a similar commitment to serving the neighborhood.
The revitalization of the downtown KCK area is an ongoing effort, and the addition of Santa Fe Grocers is seen as a significant step forward. The store is expected to attract foot traffic to the area, benefiting other local businesses and contributing to the overall economic vitality of the neighborhood. The project also aligns with broader efforts to promote healthy living and address food insecurity in Wyandotte County.
Lemmer is currently working through the necessary permits and approvals with the Unified Government. He plans to keep the community informed about the progress of the project through social media and local media outlets. He encourages residents to share their ideas and suggestions for the new store, emphasizing his commitment to creating a space that meets the needs of the community. The success of this downtown Kansas City, Kansas grocery store hinges on its ability to become a true neighborhood asset.
The next step in the process is the completion of the permitting phase with the Unified Government of Wyandotte County/Kansas City, Kansas. Lemmer anticipates receiving final approvals within the next few weeks, allowing construction to begin promptly. Updates on the project’s progress will be available on the Santa Fe Grocers website and social media channels.
We encourage readers to share their thoughts on this development and how it might impact the downtown KCK community. Your feedback is valuable as we continue to cover this story.
