Trader Joe’s is continuing its New York City expansion.
The city-owned space under the Queensboro Bridge spans roughly 50,000 square feet and was previously home to a Food Emporium, which closed five years ago. Patch.com first reported the news.
Art supply retailer Michaels applied to fill the landmarked space on East 59th Street and First Avenue in 2017, but those plans fell through amid concerns over the store’s design.
The fact the space was previously used as a supermarket made Trader Joe’s application somewhat easier. The Community Board 8 landmarks committee unanimously approved the application last week, and the Landmarks Preservation Commission will consider it soon.
Across the bridge in Long Island City, the grocery store is planning a 17,000-square-foot outpost at 22-43 Jackson Avenue, which was announced in December. [NYP, Patch] — Kevin Sun