County Executive Marc Elrich, Council President Gabe Albornoz, Councilmember Tom Hucker, members of the Montgomery County State Delegation and representatives from EDENS last week announced a new main “anchor” store would be part of the redeveloped Burtonsville Crossing Shopping Center. The shopping center, which is at a central location of the East County community, significantly has been vacant for a considerable length.
A lease has been signed by the Phoenix-based company Sprouts Farmers Market in what is seen as the first critical step to start the revitalization of a once-thriving retail area.
County Executive Elrich said redevelopment of the center could lead to other changes around Old Columbia Pike.
“I look forward to working with EDENS as we continue to develop a plan that integrates adjacent county-owned land with EDENS’ revitalization efforts,” said County Executive Elrich.
It will be the grocery chain's first store in Montgomery County. Sprouts is projected to open in the second half of 2023.
“We are excited to partner with Sprouts on bringing a unique grocery experience to Burtonsville,” said David Germakian, managing director of EDENS.
More than 100 people came to the center to hear the announcement.
“Thanks in part to the state economic development funding the Maryland District 14 legislative team secured the Burtonsville Crossing Shopping Center will be redeveloped over the next year,” said Maryland State Senator Craig J. Zucker on behalf of the team that includes Del. Anne Kaiser, Del. Eric Luedtke and Del. Pamela Queen. “We are very glad that the revitalization of the shopping center is finally becoming reality. We are pleased that the $10 million that we secured will be put to good use."
EDENS said its plans for redevelopment of the center include renovated facades, expanded sidewalks with outdoor seating and dining opportunities and enhanced landscaping. The revitalized center also will have improved pedestrian and vehicular connectivity. The upgrades will include a plaza that could be used for community events such as movie nights.
“As the District Councilmember, revitalizing Burtonsville Crossing has been my top property,” said Councilmember Hucker. “I’m so thankful that we will be able to deliver this important victory for the East County. It was long overdue, but I want to thank all of the residents for their tireless advocacy and everyone who helped make today possible.”
Council President Gabe Albornoz also was enthused by the announcement.
“Having Sprouts open in the Burtonsville Crossing Shopping Center is such great news,” said Council President Albornoz. “Sprouts will certainly be a catalyst for revitalization there and open the door to more shopping opportunities for people in the East County. Burtonsville has a bright future.”
