Trader Joe’s no longer planned for Jefferson Park, but Ald. Gardiner says ‘reputable grocer’ still top priority 

by BRIAN NADIG

Plans to build a Trader Joe’s grocery store in Jefferson Park at 6200 W. Higgins Ave. have fallen through due to costs related to environmental issues, according to Alderman James Gardiner (45th).

“It’s very unfortunate, but our first priority will continue to be a reputable grocery store there,” Gardiner said on Aug. 18.

Trader Joe’s was planing to purchase the property, but a disagreement “over costs” ended the deal, Gardiner said. In May the City Council rezoned the property to accommodate the planned Trader Joe’s.

At least a dozen environmental tests have been done on the property, and there is believed to be an underground oil tank on the site, Gardiner said. The tank poses no threat to the area, and it is not clear if the tank would have to be removed, he said.

However, the possibility of more testing and other associated costs with addressing environmental issues on the site ultimately led to the unraveling of the purchase agreement for the property, Gardiner said.

“With any major deal, it comes down to money,” and which party would pay for more testing and other possible expenses, Gardiner said.
There was a gas station on the site in the 1950s, but it is believed that the oil tank was put in after the station closed for a later business, Gardiner said, adding that “it’s not a fuel tank.”

“(Trader Joe’s) loved the site. They really wanted it. That’s their words,” Gardiner said.

In a letter to residents, Gardiner said the following:

“Like many of you, I am deeply disappointed by this outcome. For the past 18 months, my office has worked diligently to bring a well-respected grocery store to our community. Unfortunately, due to potential liability costs, both parties mutually agreed to end negotiations.

“Please know that I remain committed to fulfilling this goal. My staff and I will continue to promote the site and work tirelessly to attract a grocer that will be a welcome addition and one you will be proud to support.”

Under the plans, the site’s existing structure would have been replaced by a new 15,500-square-foot store. The parking lot would have had 108 spaces.

The property is being held under 6200 Higgins LLC, whose owners reportedly have operated some of their own grocery stores and also have bought and sold grocery store sites.

The site’s most recent occupant was a CVS Pharmacy, which closed in 2022. Another nearby CVS, located at 6417 W. Higgins Ave., is about two blocks away and remains open for business.

In the 1960s the site was home to a Kroger grocery store and in the 1970s a Dominick’s before an Osco Pharmacy moved in, followed by CVS, according to Northwest Chicago Historical Society researcher Frank Suerth.

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