Uptown Grocery Co. in Edmond

Photo by Shannon Cornman

In local development, Janet Yowell, executive director of the Edmond Economic Development Authority, says 2010 was a big year for the city for building permits, in terms of dollar amount, but 2011 was even better with 26 permits, totaling more than $102 million — an increase of $36 million over 2010.

Of those commercial permits, nearly $62 million was for office and medical office use. Those permits included about $6.5 million for 46,000 square feet of office space, and $55.5 million for 212,000 square feet of medical office space.

A breakdown for commercial properties showed office and medical office permits vastly outnumbered all other areas combined, including retail, industrial, miscellaneous commercial properties and multifamily.

Yowell says she expects medical office permits to grow as health care providers increase services and facilities. Integris, Mercy and OU Medical Center Edmond all have new or expanded facilities in the city.

RETAIL TALE 

On the retail end, Edmond officials expect a stream of new tenants, including two new grocery options: Uptown Grocery Co. at Covell Road and Kelly Avenue, and Sunflower Farmers Market at Broadway and Second Street.

Uptown is owned by Hank and Susan Binkowski, who also own the Buy for Less chain of grocery stores.

Susan Binkowski says the store’s focus is on providing staples, and brands and specialty products more difficult to find in this market. With the look of a major metropolitan warehouse, the 48,000-square-foot store features a restaurant and large seating area.

While admitting the area may be off the beaten path, she sees it as Edmond’s next thriving area. The Binkowskis are investing about $13 million in total development.

“With the concentration of homes in the area, we felt there was a need for not just a grocery store, but a really great specialty store,” she says. “It will also be a place to stop by and pick up familiar brands and everyday items.”