Update: Status of Giant and Pharmacy

From the Columbia Pike Revitalization e-Newsletter

"A major milestone in the Penrose Square development project was reached with the recent signing of a long-term lease agreement between Carbon Thompson Development and Giant Grocery. The developer is hopeful that the project's financing package will be finalized in November.

Giant’s interim plan continues to include provision of pharmacy services at 2408 Columbia Pike, the vacant storefront next to Rappahannock Coffee; the details regarding interim grocery services through free round-trip shuttle service from the interim pharmacy to another Giant location are still being sorted out. Once the developer’s financing package and the interim service plan are approved, Giant Grocery will be given a 60-day notice to cease operations.

However, a provision in the lease agreement allows Giant the option of staying open through the 2008 holiday season, regardless of the specific date the notice to vacate is issued. The overall construction period from beginning of demolition to delivery is 28 months.

Site construction plans were presented at a public meeting at Walter Reed Community Center on October 7th, including plans to close the sidewalk along the southside of 9th street during the construction period. Look for regular updates in upcoming CPRO e-newsletters on the implementation status of various elements of the construction that affect pedestrians, commuters, nearby residents and businesses. To view renderings of the new Penrose Square mixed-use complex, use the following link."