Walgreens Set to Set Down Serious Roots on Springfield Avenue

If you think the new construction of the soon-to-open Walgreens at the corner of Springfield & Burnett is blending in nicely with the buildings in its neighborhood, know that it is not by accident — a great deal of planning and energy went into the aesthetics of the new location.

“They really wanted to capture a quaint, downtown feeling and vibe,” explains Daniela Sahade, who worked with Eden Property as the Project Manager on the building of the Maplewood Walgreens. “We tried to keep the streetscape in line with existing businesses from the brick to the fabric awnings to the size of the structure.” (At 12,175 square feet, it’s markedly smaller than the typical prototype for Walgreen’s, which runs about 14,500.)

To further perpetuate the ‘Main & Main’ feel the national chain hoped to evoke, designers also coordinated the lanterns surrounding the store with the streetlamps on Springfield Avenue, added extra benches and they spent a great deal of time on landscaping touches. They’ve also tried to improve the view of the former Chrysler dealership for those living in eye-shot of the new pharmacy space. “We really worked closely with neighbors to appease their concerns,” said Sahade.

In terms of keeping the Walgreens presence positive, the good news for Maplewood — and Springfield Avenue — is that Walgreens is here for the long haul. “The company has a long track record of staying in locations for a long time,” explained Sahade. “Most of their leases are 25 years, fixed, with up to 50 year options. When they move in they move in to become a part of the community.”

Jim O’Malley, Walgreens District Manager, backs up that assertion. “We're excited about bringing Walgreens to the Maplewood community,” says O’Malley. “We've hired an outstanding staff whose focus will be delivering exceptional customer service. This store will continue the tradition of trust that has guided Walgreens for 109 years. We are committed to providing the most convenient access to high quality pharmacy services and basic needs. We are looking forward to servicing our new customers.”

While that servicing won’t include delivery as of yet (available at their 2933 Vauxhall Rd. location) it will offer many other perks and products.

“Our new store with a drive-thru pharmacy will provide convenient access to healthcare services and everyday necessities for thousands in this community and the surrounding area,” shared O’Malley, who also provided a partial list of what else shoppers will find in store. “Thousands of everyday items including medications, fine fragrances and cosmetics, greeting cards, small electronics, housewares, soft drinks, dairy products, frozen foods, snacks and much more.”  

Here’s hoping the soon to open location will be bringing more business and prosperity to the Avenue and Maplewood.

Other Walgreens scoop: Opening date is the week of 11/7/11. Hours of operation: Front end: 8 a.m. - 10 p.m.; Everyday Pharmacy 8 a.m. - 10 p.m. M-F 9 a.m. - 6 p.m. SAT 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. SUN/