NORTH BRUNSWICK -- Trader Joe's will soon set up shop in Middlesex County, local officials announced.

The food store chain is expected to open in a storefront in the North Village Shopping Center on Route 1. The 14,500-square-foot space was previously occupied by Barnes & Noble and is currently under construction to divide the space for four tenants.

"We are pleased to welcome a Trader Joe's grocery store to the North Brunswick community," Mayor Francis Womack said in a statement.

Trader Joe's has not confirmed the opening, but the local council made the announcement at their Monday meeting.

Womack says the food store is expected to open later this year.

GALLERY: Vintage photos of food stores and supermarkets

Trader Joe's has 12 locations throughout New Jersey. This would be the first Middlesex County store.

Craig McCarthy may be reached at CMcCarthy@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @createcraig and on Facebook here. Find NJ.com on Facebook.

Have a tip? Tell us. nj.com/tips