It's being discussed on blogs and now ABC2 News has confirmed high-end supermarket chain Wegmans is in negotiations to build a store in Bel Air. The store is expected to be built at Emmorton Road and Woodsdale Raod, in a busy area of town, and it would bring in around 600 jobs.
"I'm very excited about it. I grew up in central New York, so I'm very familiar with Wegmans and very happy," said Jenn Bodis, of Fallston.
Wegmans started in Rochester, New York nearly a century ago. Now, the company operates 72 stores. Some people in Harford County make the extra drive to Hunt Valley to get to Wegmans. Many say it's worth the ride still others will support what's in place, like Weis, Super Fresh and Giant, a chain that freshened up its image recently.
"Although I think that Wegmans is a fine store, I still would prefer to shop at Klein's and Weis and the stores that are around here," said Gavin Patashnick, of Abingdon.
Bob Ward Development in Edgewood owns the vacant piece of land. A spokesperson says the firm is in negotiations with Wegmans to lease the property.
The developer would be assigned to alleviate any traffic troubles. The area will see an influx of new residents with BRAC. Potential shoppers we spoke to don't seem too concerned. They just want Wegmans around the corner.
Ward Development says negotiations should be ironed out by the end of the month. Wegmans wants to open stores in Crofton and Columbia, as well.
