Compelling New Data Brings Scotlandville Grocery Store Plans Closer to Reality
An estimated $14 million annually on groceries outside of their community. This stark statistic underscores the urgent need for a local grocery store, and the Scotlandville Food Access Commission (SFAC) is making significant strides toward turning this need into reality.
BATON ROUGE, La. – The data is in, and it's compelling. Scotlandville residents are spending an estimated $14 million annually on groceries outside of their community. This stark statistic underscores the urgent need for a local grocery store, and the Scotlandville Food Access Commission (SFAC) is making significant strides toward turning this need into reality.
Under the leadership of Eugene Collins, the SFAC has been diligently working to establish a full-service grocery store in Scotlandville. Recent data has bolstered the case, highlighting not only the financial drain but also the potential for economic revitalization within the community. A proposed site off Howell Boulevard has emerged as a key location, drawing interest from potential retailers due to its strategic position with over 140,000 vehicles passing by daily.
“We're closer than ever to bringing a grocery store to this community,” Collins stated, emphasizing the importance of data-driven efforts. “Our focus now is on aligning this data with our goals and continuing to push forward.”
One of the few existing sources of fresh food in the area is the Scotlandville Bodega, owned by Charlette Minor’s family. The Bodega has become a vital community hub, providing much-needed access to fresh produce and other essentials. Minor, who grew up in Scotlandville, knows firsthand the importance of having convenient, affordable grocery options.
“This isn’t just about having a grocery store—it’s about creating a lifeline for our community,” Minor said. “Residents need a place where they can buy fresh watermelon, cantaloupe, and greens without worrying about transportation or high costs.”
Despite the work that remains, both Collins and Minor express optimism about the progress being made. Collins laid out the next steps: “We need to continue educating the community, applying for funding, and organizing this project for success. We're confident that a grocery store is within reach for Scotlandville.”
Minor echoed this sentiment, noting the growing unity within the community. “People may have different ideas, but there’s a shared vision for what this grocery store could mean for Scotlandville in the next two years,” she said.
As the SFAC continues to hold community meetings and develop strategic plans, the goal of opening a grocery store in Scotlandville within the next two years is becoming increasingly tangible—a development that could keep millions of dollars circulating within the community and significantly improve residents' quality of life.
