After years of wish lists, rumors, debates, doubts, and quiet off-the-record confirmations, Trader Joe’s long-anticipated arrival in Lafayette is officially real and now visibly underway.
Land records from an Adam Daigle Acadiana Advocate report confirm Trader Joe’s has closed on a deal for just under three acres at 1710 Camellia Boulevard near River Ranch. The Monrovia, California based retailer purchased the property from Pine Farm Limited Partnership LLC, registered to the Saloom family. The sale price was not disclosed, but documents show the deal was finalized earlier this month.
And it does not appear the company is wasting any time. Developing Lafayette was already out at the site capturing drone footage showing dirt work and early site preparation underway, offering the clearest visual confirmation yet that the project is absolutely moving forward.
What We Know So Far
Company officials have not responded to requests for comment, but a source close to the deal indicated construction on the 13,500 square foot store could be completed by mid year. Preliminary site work is already underway, and Lafayette Consolidated Government approved a building permit for the project in October with construction valued at $6.5 million.
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The deal follows nearly a year of zoning and permitting steps, including a variance approved by the Board of Zoning Adjustment in January, which gave us the first real sign of Trader Joe’s interest in Lafayette.
Competition Nearby… As In Right Next Door
Trader Joe’s will enter one of Lafayette’s most competitive grocery corridors, with multiple stores within a short radius. That includes Rouses Markets, located directly across the street. Many shoppers say loyalty to their current grocery stores will remain unchanged, with Trader Joe’s simply becoming another option rather than a replacement.
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Several residents told us having Trader Joe’s and Rouses side by side feels like a grocery wish list finally coming true.
What Leaders Are Saying
Mayor President Monique Boulet welcomed the development, calling it a strong sign that Lafayette continues to move in the right direction. One Acadiana President and CEO Troy Wayman said the investment reflects the region’s growth, job creation, and overall quality of life…