Longtime St. Pete grocery store and restaurant at risk of being demolished

Mair's Grocery, a 24-year-old Caribbean-inspired grocery store and restaurant in St. Petersburg, risks demolition as the St. Pete Free Clinic seeks to expand its services by converting the neighboring property. The Development Review Commission approved the clinic's plans to renovate a former furniture store into a medical office and supply pantry, leading to concerns over the closure of Mair's. Employees stress the importance of the grocery store for local residents, many of whom rely on it for meals.

The clinic's CEO stated that 91% of residents surveyed in the area support the proposed expansion, reflecting the community's need for enhanced services. Despite the clinic's plans, local workers express a desire to remain operational and collaborate with the clinic. They believe a partnership could benefit the community while preserving access to food resources. The situation highlights the tension between expanding health services and maintaining essential local businesses. As discussions continue, the future of Mair's remains precarious.