Hill Residents to Hear About New Save-A-Lot

Discount grocery chain Save-A-Lot is looking to move into the Hill District, but they want to make sure the community is behind the idea first. Councilwoman Tonya Payne is hosting a "Community Dialogue" meeting in her district this Saturday, April 10.
Some residents say they want a store with more services, like a pharmacy. Payne says even though Save-A-Lot might not have those services, they could help bring in more investors. Before the meeting, there will be a bus tour to a Save-A-Lot in Wilkinsburg. Payne hopes that will show Hill residents that the store will meet their needs, along with bringing in more jobs and possibly African-American ownership. As of this morning, more than 25 are registered for the trip. Payne says Save-A-Lot is the only option for the Hill. Giant Eagle doesn't want to create competition with stores already near-by in Oakland and the North Side. Save-A-Lot is looking at 2 different locations, both on Centre Avenue.
The One Hill Coalition is still negotiating with the city and the Penguins for a Community Benefits Agreement, which they want to include a grocery store. Payne says she is still working with One Hill on the C.B.A., but this is a separate matter.
The bus leaves at 8:30 a.m. from the New Light Temple Baptist Church at 2546 Centre Avenue. The meeting will start there at 11:00 a.m.