A local grocery store chain is in the final stages of coming to an agreement to open a new supermarket in the Evanston Plaza shopping center, the location formerly occupied by Dominick’s.

Valli Produce is currently speaking with Safeway Inc., the current leaseholder of the 58,000 square foot location in the intersection of Dempster Street and Dodge Avenue. Under completion of the agreement, the grocer plans to open a 70,000 square foot space, subleasing the area where Dominick’s was located and an adjacent space.

Valli Produce met with city officials earlier this year to talk about its plans to open an Evanston location. After Dominick’s closed its stores in the Chicago-area in December 2013, Mayor Elizabeth Tisdahl formed a Grocery Store Working Group in an effort to find a suitable option to replace Dominick’s.

City manager Wally Bobkiewicz voiced support for the new establishment to anchor Evanston Plaza shopping center.

“Valli Produce would be a wonderful addition to Evanston Plaza, and would only add to the rich diversity of shopping options already available in town,” Bobkiewicz said in a news release.

Bobkiewicz added that the city is prepared to evaluate proposals to help the supermarket financially with its renovation plans and to improve Evanston Plaza through using the existing Tax Increment Financial District.

“The City applauds Valli for recognizing the value of the Evanston Plaza location and the strong sense of community that makes Evanston a special place to live and work,” he said. “We look forward to continuing to work with all parties to help facilitate the property’s transition and renovation.”

Email: [email protected]
Twitter: @beccasavransky