For years, Lafayette residents have speculated (and likely prayed) about the possibility of a Trader Joe’s opening in the Hub City, and thanks to a report from Adam Daigle at The Acadiana Advocate, it seems that dream might finally be taking shape. The specialty grocer is reportedly in negotiations to open a location on Camellia Boulevard near River Ranch, next to the recently opened Rouses Market.
Documents from the Lafayette Consolidated Government’s Board of Zoning Adjustment reveal that a “specialty grocer” has cleared key regulatory hurdles, including parking and setback variances. Daigle’s report says these adjustments were requested by New Orleans-based Sherman Strategies, citing the unique demands of this highly anticipated store.
The proposed site, at the corner of Camellia Boulevard and Bluebird Drive, has been designed with customer convenience and safety in mind, incorporating insights gained from Trader Joe’s locations nationwide. Among the approved variances is space for 172 parking spots—well above the standard maximum—and an extended setback from the roadway to ensure smoother operations for customers and delivery trucks…