In a unanimous decision, the Orange Economic Development Corporation (EDC) has approved $1.5 million in funding to support the construction of a new, state-of-the-art H-E-B grocery store. This project marks a significant milestone in the city’s long-term development strategy.
The funding is designed to support infrastructure improvements related to the project and to incentivize the grocery chain to expand its existing presence in the City of Orange. “That would work with their infrastructure improvement and changes to help them come to the City of Orange,” said Council Member Larry Spears, who expressed optimism that the approved funding will be enough to solidify the deal.
According to city officials, H-E-B is currently in the process of purchasing the Northway Shopping Center, which will be demolished to make way for the new facility. Once finalized, the new store is expected to be twice the size of the existing H-E-B and will include expanded parking and roadway improvements, including a rerouting of a nearby street, as outlined in city documents.
“This project has been more than a year in the making,” said Kelvin Knauf, Director of Planning and Community Development. “It demonstrates a strong vote of confidence in Orange’s growth. H-E-B is a very well-known and respected brand, and we’re excited they want to expand their presence here.”
Kimberly Manning, EDC President, credited the city’s leadership for creating a pro-business environment. “We have a rock star team at the city. The mayor—he’s amazing. They’ve really been talking to industry folk about how incredible it is to live and do business in Orange,” she said. Manning also noted that similar incentive programs have helped attract hundreds of new homes to the area.
While the EDC board’s vote is a significant step forward, the final decision lies with the City Council, which began formal deliberations at its meeting this evening. A representative from H-E-B attended the meeting and confirmed the company’s intent to acquire the property but emphasized that “nothing is set in stone.”
The potential relocation will affect current tenants of the Northway Shopping Center, including Triangle Area Network (TAN). Dena Hughes, Chief Executive of TAN, said the organization is preparing for the possibility. “We just want to make sure we’re prepared and have as much information as we need to make the best decision for our staff and patients,” Hughes stated.
If approved and finalized, the project is expected to bring significant economic and community benefits to Orange, reinforcing the city’s vision for continued growth and revitalization.