Greenville Buzzes With Ideas Over Former Bi-Lo Site
In the heart of Greenville, a lively conversation is brewing about the future of the old Bi-Lo grocery store at the intersection of North Pleasantburg and Rutherford. Since closing its doors, this vacant space has been a hot topic among locals, and for good reason! Brisbane, with its sunny weather and a high of 78F today, is the perfect backdrop for discussing this potential transformation.
A Peek Into the Past
The once-thriving Bi-Lo chain, deeply rooted in Upstate history, has sparked nostalgia that runs strong among its former employees. Many are keeping the memory alive with collections of Bi-Lo memorabilia, including hats, name tags, and quirky items like a fiberglass bull head from the ’60s, which finds its home with former vice president Rusty Streetman. Greenville’s long-lost Baby Bi-Lo, well-known to locals, has been mostly empty since 2013, raising the question: what’s next for this iconic location?
Fresh Plans on the Table
Proposal heaters are ablaze around town, with an exciting vision emerging from the minds of a local engineer and a mayoral candidate. They’re presenting a collaboration aimed at establishing “Unity Park” right where the Bi-Lo once stood. This park would not only serve as a community gathering place but would also feature facilities for Clemson students to work on projects, plus a commercial kitchen and creative makerspaces! The idea has sparked interest, with city officials highlighting the need for support from both Clemson University and local businesses to breathe life into the vision.
Room for Growth
But that’s not all! Nearby shopping centers are also exploring new opportunities to fill the void left behind by Bi-Lo. Wes Nalley, who oversees Field Plaza, has sat down with two supermarket chains eager to take over the Bi-Lo spot. While he admits it’s early days, he’s feeling positive about making some headway soon. “It’s probably closer than it is further out!” Nalley reassured locals. However, if a grocery store doesn’t materialize, plans are in place for a full redevelopment, turning the area into a mixed-use space.
From Libraries to La Unica
In another part of town, the Greenville County Library System has its eye on the old Bi-Lo store on East North Street, bought for a cool $6.75 million with the intention of transforming it into a new library branch. Although renovations are currently on hold while work is completed on another branch, the library assures it’s committed to keeping the site secure and ready for future plans.
Meanwhile, excitement is in the air in Boiling Springs as plans to convert a former Bi-Lo into a La Unica, a Hispanic grocery store, are moving ahead. Leasing agent Kevin Conway is optimistic about the store opening within the next three to four months. This could be just what the area needs to tap into the growing diversity of Greenville’s community.
What’s Next?
With constant growth humming in Greenville and its surrounding areas, a light seems to shine on the old Bi-Lo properties. Whether it’s redevelopment, new supermarkets, or community parks, the residents are enthusiastic about turning these defunct spaces into fresh opportunities. The empty storefronts continue to raise questions, but it looks like change is coming!
As the sun shines brightly on our town today, let’s enjoy the weather and stay hopeful for an exciting future filled with bustling shops, vibrant parks, and renewed community spirit. What are your thoughts on the revitalization of these previously loved spaces?
