Some thoughts about the vacant site

Since the closing of the Oakmont Giant Eagle, there is no doubt that plenty of conversations have revolved around wondering what we can do to entice a developer to work out a deal to open a new grocery store in Oakmont. Here are some random thoughts on the subject: It is rumored that Giant Eagle owns the land on which the vacant Giant Eagle building resides (or at least a substantial portion of it).  The likelihood of them selling the property to a competitive grocery store chain isn't very conceivable, is it?  I guess if the right price was offered, they might consider it - purely speculation on my part.  If Giant Eagle choses to do nothing with the site, we must support our Borough Council in an effort to force Giant Eagle's hand.  What are the laws related to eminent domain?  A case could be made that a boarded up building in the heart of Oakmont is detrimental to property values in the area.  What about building code violations?  Does the borough have any legal recourse?  Any way you slice it, a bonafide buyer needs to be identified or the discussion is moot.  I, for one, don't like being held hostage by Giant Eagle. If the site remains a Giant Eagle establishment and it is redeveloped as such, this site should follow the model of a Giant Eagle Market District, not a Getgo, a Giant Eagle Express, nor a normal Giant Eagle supermarket.  There is only one Market District location in the area (in East Liberty, a good 25 minute drive - ironically within a block or so of Whole Foods).  The Oakmont Community would be an excellent location for an upscale brand such as Market District - this would offer a better destination than East Liberty for the residents on the north side of the Allegheny River as well. Is there any other property in Oakmont that would be suitable for a grocery store?  So much focus has been placed upon the vacant Giant Eagle site, that maybe we are losing sight of other opportunties within our community.  With the addition of the traffic signals at Hulton Road, maybe there is potential untapped property on the north side of Hulton Road.  Admittedly, I don't know what all is over there besides Thermo Twin.  Maybe they are outgrowing this property also. What about the Oakmont east area?  With the Oakmont bridge being rebuilt in 2011 or so, we'll be captive - and I anticipate he Verona Giant Eagle will become much busier.  My guess is that those who go to Wal-Mart, Fox Chapel and the Express will all converge on the Verona Giant Eagle.

 

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