(Editor’s note: CityScene KC is taking a little time off to recharge its batteries in the Black Hills. Following the recent FTA decision to fund the planned extension of the streetcar from downtown to UMKC, the next few days will feature previous stories about the plans and ideas already set in motion along Main Street in anticipation of the new line.)

This story was published previously on Nov. 1, 2019

By Kevin Collison

A new grocery store on the proposed streetcar extension intended to cater to its diverse neighborhood with international foods as well as a premium selection of liquor, wine and beer is planned for a vacant building at 3967 Main.

The 9,000 square-foot store will be located in a small, diagonal strip center off Main by Midwest Cyclery and is geared toward serving nearby residents and apartment dwellers accessing it via the planned 39th Street streetcar stop.

The store is part of a revival along Main sparked in part by the anticipated streetcar extension that includes the renovation of the historic Netherland Hotel into apartments, and hundreds of new apartments developed by MAC Properties on Armour Boulevard.

“Obviously, the streetcar is a plus,” said Jay Friedman, a partner in the venture. “We love the fact the streetcar will come through there…It’s a very walkable area too.”

Friedman said the building has been used as a grocery store throughout its history dating back to the 1930s.

The partners envision it as offering a variety of foods that cater to the international tastes of the neighborhood as well as offer staples including milk, eggs, meats and produce. Much of the shelves won’t be stocked like a conventional supermarket, however.

“We’re trying to have things for people from other parts of the world who live there,” Friedman said. “Everything from Africa to Pakistan to India, there’s so much diversity.”

The store also plans to offer quality liquors and a good selection of beer and wine.

Friedman said the owners expect to open the store, which still is in search of a name, by the first quarter of 2020.

The tentative hours will be 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. seven days a week, with the liquor department to remain open later.

Don’t miss any downtown news, sign up for our weekly CityScene KC email review here.