If you have been around Sun City Carolina Lakes long enough, you remember that grocery shopping was either Food Lion or a long drive. We were excited about Harris Teeter and just as excited about Publix. Then a little farther north came Aldi, the Walmart Supercenter, and now Lidl. The fruit of civilization (pun intended) moved our direction. And with that fruit came choice.   

Most of us feel that any time not spent in 521 traffic is good thing. Well, how about being able to go across 521 out the front gate to shop. Yup, a new Aldi will be a short par four away from the front gate. Panera Bread and Starbucks offer yet another place to relax and enjoy a scone and a cup of coffee. Shop for yourself or take the grandkids back-to-school shopping at Burlington (formerly Burlington Coat Factory), TJ Maxx, or Ross. There will also be Petco and Hobby Lobby, to name only a few of the anchor stores, with more stores signing contracts soon.

The Indian Land Facebook page is hosting an interesting discussion among long-time IL residents about the advantages and disadvantages of local growth. Although some folks are understandably nostalgic for the IL Panhandle of 10+ years ago, many others are embracing the opportunities coming our way. Yes, some folks are holding out for their personal favorites like Trader Joe’s or Whole Foods, which, who knows, may be on the horizon, but for now let’s appreciate both the convenience of nearby shopping and the choices afforded to us right across the street.  The Promenade is expected to open for business Fall 2018.

Click here to see a map of The Promenade at Carolina Reserve and to see the full list of stores.