Expect to see shelf-stocking activity fairly soon at the new Walgreens store that’s ready for occupancy at the southeast corner of 20th Street and Range Line Road.
The store has been sitting empty for the past few weeks while some landscape work is completed. The store, in my opinion, has improved the appearance of the intersection, which was once home to a car wash and the former Travetti’s restaurant.
After the restaurant was torn down, the vacant lot became a place where people could park cars and other vehicles they were trying to sale. The car wash wasn’t so bad, but the used cars looked a bit junky.
Fortunately for Home Depot, the store was positioned closer to the south end of the lot. That gives motorists a clear view from Range Line of Home Depot to the east.
This is the third Walgreens to be constructed in the Joplin market, which does not include the one in Webb City. The others are at 20th and Main streets, and Seventh Street and Maiden Lane. In each case, Walgreens acquired a corner lot that was lacking in appearance and transformed it into something with curb appeal.
The new store on Range Line should open on or about March 10.
Family event
The 11th annual “Family Fun Fair’’ will be held from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 6, in the JC Penney court at Northpark Mall.
The event, part of the United Way’s “Success By 6’’ program, brings child-care providers and other organizations together so that parents can learn what services are available in the area. About 20 to 25 activity booths will be set up for children.
Performances at the event include a puppet show by the Joplin Fire Department, story time by students from Crowder College, a performance by the School of Ballet, Rapper Sitton, Kufara and the Success By 6 Superstars.
Land cleared
The southwest corner of 14th Street and Range Line has been cleared by B&D; Yardbuilders and Demolition.
Three structures were torn down. The one closest to Range Line was a small house that had been converted into a bridal storefront. It has been unoccupied for some time. The others were small houses, one of which recently was damaged by fire.
It’s generally a good sign that someone is planning to construct something when property along Range Line is cleared. But from what I’ve heard, there’s nothing firm in the works yet. The lot is big enough for a stand-alone venture.
New mattress shop
Mattress Depot has opened in the Evans Plaza shopping center at 2501 N. Range Line. It’s in Suite 1.
The storefront once was home to the Lil’ Rascals Boutique, which moved to the City Pointe shopping center.
The shop features a broad selection of mattresses. The brands are Noah, A&M; and Golden.
If you have news about something happening on Range Line Road, dial 417-623-3480, ext. 7250; or send an e-mail to wkennedy@joplinglobe.com; or send a fax to Wally Kennedy at 417-623-8598.
