Seattle leaders debate groceries as new building owner says emptied Broadway Whole Foods has lease through 2038

Kennedy Wilson has acquired the luxury apartment building above the vacant Whole Foods on Broadway, which retains a lease valid until 2038. The new ownership plans to implement plywood coverings and window treatments to prevent vandalism and advertise the building's multi-family housing units. Whole Foods remains a paying tenant, raising questions about its future amid other grocery closures, including the abrupt shutdown of the Amazon Fresh store earlier this year. District 3 Councilmember Joy Hollingsworth sparked discussions on grocery store economics, noting that closures typically follow years of financial losses. The Whole Foods closure, attributed to poor sales performance, has left the community questioning the viability of grocery stores in the area.

Kennedy Wilson has committed to a $2. 7 million investment over the next five years to enhance the property and neighborhood. The neighborhood's grocery landscape is under scrutiny as local leaders debate the economic model affecting grocery stores. Residents are keen to see how these developments will impact grocery availability and community growth.