Publix, a beloved grocery chain in the Southeast, is set to enhance its presence in St. Petersburg, Florida. The Publix store situated at 3900 66th Street North is scheduled for a complete rebuild, promising an upgraded shopping experience for local residents. This location will be temporarily closing its doors to pave the way for a brand-new, modern supermarket and an adjacent liquor store.
A New and Improved Publix on 66th Street North
The existing Publix supermarket at 66th Street North, originally constructed in 1976, is ready for a significant upgrade. The project, estimated at $10.5 million, involves demolishing the current structure and constructing a larger, state-of-the-art Publix Food & Pharmacy, along with a separate liquor store. The site, spanning 6.25 acres, will be transformed into a contemporary shopping destination. Notably, Laura’s Five Star Jewelry, located on the corner of 66th Street and 38th Avenue North, will remain untouched by the redevelopment.
Publix has a history of reinvesting in its stores to meet evolving customer needs and preferences. This rebuild mirrors their commitment to providing modern and convenient shopping environments. A previous example of this commitment is the rebuilt Publix store on the west side of Fourth Street at 38th Avenue North, showcasing the company’s dedication to the St. Pete community.
Project Details and Development Team
Windcrest Development Group from Orlando is spearheading the development of this new shopping center. Hawkins Construction Inc. of Tarpon Springs has been contracted for both the demolition and construction phases. Architectural design is being handled by Fisher & Associates LLC of Clearwater, while Campo Engineering Inc. of Tampa is providing crucial engineering services for the project.
The new Publix store will see a slight increase in size, expanding from the current 56,565 square feet to 57,554 square feet. This will include a 55,454-square-foot grocery store and a 2,100-square-foot liquor store, offering an expanded selection and improved layout. Parking will also be enhanced, with 241 parking spaces planned, including 9 handicap-accessible spaces. Furthermore, a new stormwater system will be implemented to adhere to Pinellas County’s updated redevelopment standards, a feature absent in the current site.
Shopping Alternatives During Closure
During the construction period, loyal Publix customers in the 66th Street area will have several alternative Publix locations within a short drive. Conveniently, there are three other Publix stores situated within a three-mile radius. The closest alternative is located just 1.6 miles away at 1600 66th Street North, ensuring that residents can continue to access their preferred grocery store with minimal disruption.
While Publix has not yet announced a specific reopening date for the revamped 66th Street store, the community can anticipate a modern shopping destination in the future. With over 1,300 stores across the Southeast, Publix continues to demonstrate its commitment to providing quality grocery and pharmacy services, and this St. Pete rebuild is another step in that direction.
