ShopRite Supermarket to Open In Foxon

One of those larger vacant spaces along Route 80 in will soon find itself filled.

During his State of the Town Address last night, Mayor Joseph Maturo Jr reported that it is a ShopRite that will open in the on Route 80.

, Economic Development Coordinator Art DeSorbo told East Haven Patch that the now vacant space was likely to be filled by "another major food store." But he was unable, at that time, to reveal the name.

There is no word yet on when the new supermarket expects to open its doors.

East Haven Patch, however, will continue to provide updates on the new supermarket's opening, as more information becomes available.

Hobby Lobby

But that was not the only economic development news the mayor made in his address last night.

Hobby Lobby — an arts, crafts and home supllies superstore chain — will be opening later this year in the current HomeGoods store location along Frontage Road.

HomeGoods anounced it would be leaving its East Haven store front for a new site in Milford.

In his earlier this monrth, DeSorbo told East Haven Patch that a that C.A.White — the company that owns and manages the property shopping mall where HomeGoods is located — already had lined up another "big box retailer" for the space.

And that that superstore, is also looking to rent the additional 25,000 square foot space now occupied by the .

This means the center will have to move out and find a new location at the end of the current school year. DeSorbo said the town is already actively looking for a new spot for the center.

Other Address Highlights

In addition to the economic development news, the mayor's address also noted:

• The creation of a new Interfaith Council that will meet regularly with the East Haven Police Department to discuss community and police relations.
• That the mayor has met with (who was in attendance last night) and other members of
• The Hagaman Memorial Library's construction of the is expected to be completed this June.
• The Tax Department is currently maintaining a positive collection rate that is equal or slightly higher than last year.
• The Building Department is experiencing an increase in building permits and revenue after 3 years of decline in both areas
• The town has received a grant for a feasibility study on construction of a bicycle path/sidewalk along North High Street to improve access from residential neighborhoods to the middle school, high school and downtown.
• The East Haven Fire Department is within one week of putting into service a replacement rescue unit for fire headquarters,
• East Haven High School was evaluated and awarded accreditation by the New England Association of School and Colleges this year.

The mayor's entire address is posted in the gallery that accompanies this article.