Javier Baños
Baños is the Editor of Gables Insider
On March 12, 2024, the City of Coral Gables Commission approved plans for a major redevelopment on 2551 S. Le Jeune Road, paving the way for a new Publix Super Market that promises to redefine grocery shopping in the city. The decision comes as a boon to both residents and visitors, anticipating the construction of Publix’s flagship store in a prime location that currently houses an older version of the supermarket.
Situated in the heart of Coral Gables, just a stone’s throw from the bustling Miracle Mile and nestled within the city’s Central Business District Overlay, the proposed project will not only feature a state-of-the-art Publix grocery and liquor store but also additional retail spaces aimed at complementing the urban fabric. Spanning approximately 132,514 square feet (3.04 acres), the redevelopment is strategically located to serve the growing needs of the community, offering easy access to shoppers whether they choose to walk, bike, or drive.
The new complex is designed to enhance the shopping experience with approximately 58,644 square feet dedicated to the supermarket, alongside a small accessory liquor store and other retail offerings on the east end of the property. Significantly, the project is set to be bookended by two substantial public parks — one fronting LeJeune Road and the other along Salzedo Street, adding up to over 32,000 square feet of much-needed green space in the area. These open spaces are expected to provide a refreshing counterbalance to the urban density, offering serene spots for relaxation and community gatherings.
Publix Super Markets, Inc., the project applicant, has outlined a vision for the supermarket that goes beyond mere retail. The inclusion of structured parking and the promise of a flagship store underline the company’s commitment to setting new standards in grocery shopping. This ambitious project is poised to not only meet but exceed the expectations of Coral Gables’ residents, visitors, and workers looking for a modern, comprehensive shopping destination.
Despite the commission’s approval, the start of construction is scheduled to be held off for an additional 18 months. As the city anticipates the emergence of this new landmark, the Publix flagship store is set to become a central hub for grocery shopping, contributing to the vibrancy and dynamism of Coral Gables.
Having covered parking is so nice! Love that idea. I have used it at the Publix on Red Road and it sure comes in handy when our rainy season is here. They do not charge for it.
Having to use a parking garage to go grocery shopping is absurd. It makes it more difficult for the elderly to shop at this location in the future. Will need to find another grocery store.
I see only a parking ramp up on Andalucia meaning traffic can only enter east bound from Lejune Road which is already highly congested. Is there a parking ramp up on Valencia where traffic can enter west bound?
Why is the starting of construction taking 18 months?
That’s ridiculous
Why is the starting of construction taking 18 months?
That’s ridiculous
Very , very good news! The existing Publix it’s old, dirty and outdated. I’m so excited
There seems to be street parking all around in the new project except on Le Jeune. More than now, actually.
There seems to be street parking all around in the new project except on Le Jeune. More than now, actually.
If shoppers will have to pay for parking then people will not shop there
Though the picture is small, it looks like there is no parking or “drive-in” on the Valencia side. People coming home from Downtown will have to turn north on to LeJeune to go around the block to enter on the Andalusia side. The trees on LeJeune might be pretty and serve a purpose, but those of us who stop in on the way to work (Andalusia East) would appreciate a few parking spaces there to make it a quick in and out rather than having to drive up the ramp. A moot point probably, but wonder why it wasn’t planned that way when there is so much business from 7am-9am.
Is this an ad for Publix? They should have built more housing on top of the supermarket. We need more supply to increase affordability
“Cheerleading” article, lacking important details. How long will construction take? What will be the corresponding level of disruption? Traffic impact? Potential impact on, and corresponding plans for, the parking garage across the street? Publix owned and funded? Hard to form an opinion without a full set of facts.
Do you mean west end of property for liquor and other retail? Is there a covered level of parking?
Where will bike racks be?
No issues with project but the piece reads like an ad.