Jul 22, 2008 11:22 pm US/Eastern
Baltimore City Gets First Target
BALTIMORE (WJZ) ―
The city of Baltimore could get an economic boost with the opening of its first Target store. It's coming to Mondawmin Mall.
Kelly McPherson has more on the impact for people living nearby.
Whether you're a fan of Wal-Mart, Target or Kmart, if you live in the city, you know it's inconvenient to get to the closest one. This is the first Target in the city and there are only three Kmarts on the outskirts and no Wal-Marts. The hope is this will invigorate West Baltimore.
The 250 Target employees have more to celebrate than their new job. City leaders say this store will help invigorate West Baltimore and that's where many of the workers live. During the last three years, community leaders gave input about everything from the hiring process to expectations.
"It's been a long time since we had a store in the community where you, as a woman, want to go to church on a Sunday and can go to the mall and pick up a nice dress," said Adeline Hutchinson.
What's happening here in Baltimore is similar to what the developer is also doing in Detroit and really is the trend across retail development: set up shop in urban neighborhoods.
With no big box stores nearby, General Growth Properties expects the neighborhood will sustain the store. Target and Starbucks lovers, including the City Council president, are eager to spend to keep the convenience close.
"I know all of the economic benefits, all the things I'm supposed to say, but I didn't even bring my remarks. I'm so excited, I feel like my head is going to explode. I just want to run the aisles," said Stephanie Rawlings-Blake, City Council President.
Developers and city officials hope this enthusiasm will be a bulls-eye for the $70 million mall makeover and the economy.
"We want other people to come into our neighborhood. This will bring them in. We got something! Come see us!" Hutchinson said.
Tuesday night's opening was just for employees. The public can start shopping on Sunday.
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