A Target Express store opened Wednesday in South Park despite concerns from residents and business owners who say the opening will detract from the quaint neighborhood’s appeal.
The 1,900-square-foot store, considered a “mini store,” opened at Grape and Fern streets. It will offer a pharmacy and California-grown produce.
The store, however, will not include a Starbucks after company officials decided to nix that plan because a number of locals are concerned it would hurt business for neighborhood coffee shops.
“By occupying the largest building in the heart of South Park, Target would define our neighborhood, permanently altering its unique and charming personality,” a group called Care About South Park stated on its website.
The statement goes on to argue that the arrival of big-box stores “drives up rent and pushes independent stores out.”
“There are plenty of Targets, but there’s only one South Park,” the statement concluded.
In response, San Diego City Councilman Todd Gloria posted on his Facebook page that the property owner of the Target’s site believes “this was the best opportunity for the community and better met the needs of his current customers.”
Local
This is one of two Target opening this month in San Diego. The other one is opening Oct. 11 at Del Sur Town Center in the Black Mountain Ranch area.
