Media Release: Publix lease launches Cedar Valley NDD

Published on January 07, 2025

WINCHESTER, VA—According to a January 3 press release by national grocer Publix, the company recently finalized a lease agreement with Winchester Acquisition Partners, LLC. The agreement allows Publix to construct a new 50,325-square-foot grocery store on the current Ward Plaza site at the southeast corner of Valley Avenue and Weems Lane.

The agreement between Winchester Acquisition Partners LLC and Publix represents a significant step towards realizing the Cedar Valley Neighborhood Design District (NDD). The innovative Cedar Valley initiative aims to transform the underutilized Ward Plaza shopping center and vicinity into a vibrant mixed-use neighborhood using a "town-center" strategy that attracts high-end restaurants, retail, and residential development.   

The recent announcement by Publix also represents a significant achievement for the City of Winchester, including the Economic Development Authority, Economic Development Authority Board, City Manager's Office, City Council, and City Planning Commission, considering that the redevelopment of Ward Plaza has been a high-level City priority for at least two decades. When completed, the new supermarket will bring about 150 jobs to the City when it opens, currently expected in the fourth quarter of 2026.

"The arrival of Publix to the Cedar Valley Neighborhood Design District marks a significant step forward in our efforts to create vibrant, sustainable communities that foster growth and convenience. Publix is a renowned brand known for its quality service and commitment to the community, and their presence here will not only enhance the neighborhood's appeal but also contribute to local job creation and economic vitality," said Winchester Economic Development Authority Chair Addie Lingle.

Winchester Economic Development Authority Vice Chair James Imoh noted, "It is extremely rewarding to see two years of hard work come to fruition with the announcement of the Publix lease signing. This is only the beginning; we're excited about witnessing the groundbreaking of our first major Neighborhood Design District project later this year."

Publix officials also expressed excitement over the new development. "We are happy to be a part of the Ward Plaza revitalization project with the opening of a new Publix Super Market," said Publix Media Relations Manager Jared Glover. "As with all our locations, we plan to be active members of the community and look forward to providing premier service to our new customers soon."

From the City, Mayor-Elect Les Veach thanked community members for providing valuable feedback on the Cedar Hill initiative and highlighted the importance of civic engagement in the neighborhood redevelopment process. Mayor-Elect Veach thanked "everyone involved in bringing this vision – our dedicated city planners, local businesses, and, of course, the residents – whose support and ideas made it possible."  

City Manager Dan Hoffman emphasized the strong internal and external team that accomplished this important goal: "I’m so proud of the city staff and all of our partners that helped make this happen. Redeveloping Ward Plaza has been a city priority for 20 years, and we are finally seeing that become reality."

Community members can stay informed on the Cedar Valley Neighborhood Design District (NDD) Initiative as it progresses by checking the NDD page.    

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