It’s not everywhere you see a traffic jam and a line of people wrapping around the building to get inside…a grocery store.
When the doors opened Friday morning at the Save A Lot on Simpson Stuart Road, though, it was anything but an average grocery store.
For the South Dallas Highland Hills neighborhood, it’s THE grocery store.
For longer than many in the line could remember, the neighborhood and several throughout the Oak Cliff area have sat within so-called food deserts. urban areas where access to affordable,fresh, and healthy food is difficult or non-existent.
In fact, for decades, Dallas City Hall has tried to lure grocers south of Interstate 30; even offering money and breaks to those willing to take the chance.
Save A Lot answered the call.
At 8 a.m. Friday, they opened their front doors to the long line, many of whom posted up as early as 5 a.m. to check out their long-awaited store.
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Several of the shoppers said that they relied on public transportation or walking to get around. As a result, a trip to the grocery store used to take some upwards of 45 minutes just to get there.
Store leaders told the crowd during their grand opening ceremony that 800 people had applied for the 30 jobs he had available, showing the need for business in general in the Highland Hills neighborhood.
Neighbors at the opening said this first step is long overdue and they hope it won’t be the last to take a chance on their area.
