Trader Joe’s is set to open a new store at 8726 Greenwood Avenue N, in Seattle’s Greenwood neighborhood. The store will occupy 13,486 square feet at the base of a six-story apartment building, replacing a former Safeway that closed in 2018. The new Trader Joe’s marks a significant transformation of the site, which has evolved over the decades.
The Historical Evolution of the Site
Greenwood has a rich history dating back to the early 20th century. Originally an independent neighborhood, it was annexed by Seattle in 1954. The area grew around Greenwood Avenue, which served as a major streetcar route, connecting the neighborhood to downtown Seattle.
The first historic aerial image from 1936 shows the site as part of a predominantly residential area with scattered commercial development. The streets are lined with small homes and open lots, reflecting a time when Greenwood was still developing as a suburban extension of Seattle. At this point, there was no large retail presence where the new Trader Joe’s will stand today.
In contrast, the modern satellite image highlights the area’s transformation. Multi-story apartment buildings now dominate the landscape, and commercial spaces have expanded significantly. What was once a sparsely developed area now features dense urban growth, with shops, restaurants, and high-traffic retail stores.
From Safeway to Trader Joe’s: The Evolution of 8726 Greenwood Avenue N
A Safeway grocery store previously operated at this site, serving the community for several decades. However, it closed in 2018 due to declining profitability, leaving a vacant lot until it was redeveloped into a mixed-use building with residential units above and retail space below. Trader Joe’s now takes over this space, bringing a popular grocery option to Greenwood residents.
Last Updated on January 28, 2025 by F.E.M