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Earlier this week, developers announced that they would be delaying the scheduled grand opening of Whole Foods, which was scheduled for Wednesday, Dec. 12. The initial opening was delayed as officials addressed traffic and safety concerns in the area.
With some of those concerns assuaged, developers announced that the market would be officially opening at 9 a.m. on Saturday, Dec. 15. The New Castle Planning and Town boards approved a new traffic plan that includes new traffic markings and barriers on Route 117 near Roaring Brook Road. A “no right on red” sign for the turning lane onto Roaring Brook Road will also be temporarily added.
Town traffic consultant Lou Luglio strongly recommended the removal of the temporary left turn lane from northbound Route 117 onto Roaring Brook Road because it would accommodate no more than three vehicles at a time as opposed to six or seven cars in a permanent lane.
As part of the temporary plan, developers are also being called on to take measures to ensure pedestrian safety, and as many as three officers are set to be deployed - at the developer’s expense - to direct traffic in the area each day.
The Chappaqua Crossing redevelopment has been in the works for years. Earlier this year, dozens of apartments were opened, now they are beginning to fill the remaining space with retail locations, highlighted by the 40,000-square-foot Whole Foods market. The store is expended to create more than 225 full and part-time jobs in Westchester.
Saturday’s grand opening will include complimentary coffee and pastries, and the first 200 customers will receive free reusable shopping bags.
“We are excited to be part of the greater Chappaqua and Northern Westchester community,” Alex Saa, the store team leader, said in a release. "We aim to preserve the character of this renowned location while offering the highest quality food that the people from New Castle and beyond have been waiting for.”
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