MENDOCINO Co., 10/1/19 — The Ukiah Natural Foods Co-op, one of the more prominent natural foods stores in the county, is beginning an extensive expansion, and are inviting the public to attend a groundbreaking ceremony, tomorrow October 2. The event will include co-op management and staff, local city leaders, and some coffee and snacks to enjoy.
Plans for the expansion have been in the works for nearly three years, and while ground work has already technically begun, Wednesday is the official groundbreaking ceremony. The final addition will be roughly 5,800 square feet, and will ” increase food service and food-to-go options,” bringing the Co-op in line with the trend at similar stores like Whole Foods. The project also includes substantial environmental amenities, such as solar power, a living plant wall, and more.
The event will take place on October 2, at 8 a.m . Here’s the full announcement from their press release:
Ukiah, CA, September 27, 2019 – After 33 months of planning, Ukiah Natural Foods Co-op has broken ground on its 5,783 square foot expansion. “We’re delighted to have this project underway,” says Lori Rosenberg, Co-op general manager. “Being able to increase food service and food-to-go options will help the Co-op better serve our shoppers. It has been a team project and we look forward to the completing the beautiful addition to our building.”
Don Buchanan, Co-op facilities manager, adds, “I’m particularly excited by the green initiatives included in the project, such as solar, led lighting, heat salvage system, and a living green wall with over 1200 plants. I think the design will be a stunning addition to downtown.”
The majority of the work will take place outside, on the north side of the store, with a focus on minimizing disruptions for shoppers inside the store. Expected completion will be in early 2020.
A groundbreaking ceremony will take place on Wednesday, October 2, at 8am and will include Co-op management, city leaders, and Co-op board of directors. The public is invited to share coffee and treats.
Ukiah Food Co-op
