MURFREESBORO, Tenn. (WTVF) — A popular grocery store, abandoned in 2021, is creating bigger problems in one neighborhood.
Dr. Janet Colson, who teaches nutrition at MTSU, said she worries the closed-down Kroger along Middle Tennessee Boulevard in Murfreesboro created a 'food desert'.
"It's the low income people that are being left out," explained Dr. Colson. "There's not a grocery store that has a variety of healthy foods for a mile."
"I remember how convenient it was, it was close," said Rickey Haymer, who lives in the area. "[I] have to drive further, pay a little bit more, it's an inconvenience now."
While there are mini marts and fast food options nearby, a supermarket comparable to Kroger, like Publix or Walmart, is close to 3 miles away.
For those who don't have a car or another way to get around, that's a close to 40-minute walk.
"They walk down this hazardous road called Braydenville Pike...or if they want to take an Uber, can you imagine the cost of an Uber?" asked Dr. Colson.
While grocery stores arrive in fast-growing communities in Middle Tennessee each year, those in this part of Murfreesboro are hopeful they are next.
"It's really sad, and many of those low-income people have children, small children...it's very difficult for them," added Dr. Colson.
The old Kroger is being turned into an athletic club; it's something Colson says is a good thing, but it doesn't replace what they lost.
It's truly the small things that add up to a great day - and Warrick in Lebanon is having a big impact. His familiar face is becoming a staple in one part of the community and inspiring closer connection in the simplest way. Enjoy his warm personality! You may even feel inclined to wave to a stranger today, too.
-Rebecca Schleicher
