At a meeting last night, Whole Foods big wigs including Regional Vice President David Schwartz, spoke with Edgewater residents about their plans for the store and to seek approval for a liquor license to sell and serve alcohol.

Mr. Schwartz spoke about their passion for beer and wine and promised to include many local brands. Alcohol will most likely be served in a proposed bistro/dining area. The residents in attendance were very enthusiastic about the vote which was unanimously in favor.

The large scale former Dominick’s store was purchased by Whole Foods earlier this year and has 52,000 sq. ft. of space. The construction is planned to cost in access of $10 million. Because of the scope of the project, the Edgewater store should see many cool features such as a wood-fired grill, cafe, bakery and areas that serve up everything from fresh made sushi to sandwiches and noodles.

The most exciting thing about the new store is that they will employ around 200 workers of which 60% will be full time. It was also announced that local Edgewater artist Aaron Wooten is to paint a mural inside the store. Alderman Harry Osterman who was in attendance also unveiled plans to include artwork along the bland outside store wall that faces Broadway in order to improve the street scape.

The store is expected to open Spring 2015 (unofficial word says more specifically April, 2015). There will be announcements on future job fairs in the beginning of the new year that will help staff the store.