Northridge Neighborhood Welcomes New Grocery Option Following Rite Aid closure
Harrison Township residents in the Northridge area are gaining a vital resource with the upcoming opening of a new DG Market, filling a important gap left by recent pharmacy closures. The market is slated to occupy the space formerly held by a Rite Aid on North Dixie Drive, which shuttered its doors on July 8, 2024, as part of the company’s nationwide bankruptcy proceedings. This Rite Aid had served the community as the 1990s.
Addressing a Critical Need for Food Access
The closure of the Rite Aid, and two other Rite Aid locations within Harrison Township last year, highlighted a growing concern: limited access to essential goods, notably for residents of Northridge. Nathan Edwards, Harrison Township’s economic development and communications manager, emphasized the impact, stating the loss extended beyond pharmacy services. “The absence of a convenient local store was acutely felt,especially for those without reliable transportation,” he explained.
According to the USDA, approximately 39.2 million Americans live in food deserts – areas with limited access to affordable and nutritious food. While Northridge isn’t officially designated as a food desert,the distance to existing grocery stores presented a similar challenge for many. The nearest full-scale supermarkets, such as the Kroger on Siebenthaler Avenue and the Save A lot on north Main Street, are several miles away, posing difficulties for individuals and families relying on public transportation or walking. With a population of roughly 7,500 in Northridge and 21,800 across Harrison Township, the need for a local option was clear.
Revitalizing a Key Township Corridor
The DG Market represents more than just a new place to buy groceries; it’s a key component of a broader revitalization effort for a crucial entryway into Harrison Township. The North Dixie Drive corridor suffered significant damage during the devastating Memorial Day tornadoes of 2019. While recovery has been ongoing, the arrival of the DG Market, alongside the recently constructed quiktrip at 2301 Wagner Ford Road (formerly a hotel site), signals a turning point.
“This isn’t simply about filling a vacant building,” Edwards noted. “It’s about restoring a sense of community and economic activity to an area that has faced considerable hardship.” The township is proactively engaging with property owners and developers to attract businesses that cater to the daily needs of residents and enhance the area’s appeal.
A Stepping Stone to Further Development
The township envisions a future where this stretch of roadway transforms into a vibrant destination. The DG Market is viewed as an initial catalyst, paving the way for further investment and development. Harrison Township is actively pursuing opportunities to attract a diverse range of businesses, aiming to create a thriving commercial hub that benefits all residents.
“Our long-term goal is to build upon this momentum and create a corridor that residents can once again be proud of,” Edwards concluded. “We’re committed to fostering a community where access to essential services and a strong local economy go hand in hand.”