What Happened To The Downtown Tulsa Grocery Stores?

Downtown development is blooming along with the spring season.

But what happened to the two grocery stores that were planned to be open last year? Developers say the stores are still a go; they're just taking a little longer than planned.

08/09/2011 Related Story: Plans Announced For Two Downtown Tulsa Grocery Stores

Mary Beth Babcock lives downtown. She runs her business downtown, and plays downtown. But she can't grocery shop downtown.

"I'm all about convenience," Babcock said. "To be able to walk would be so nice."

Last summer, local business men Blake Ewing and Daniel Cameron announced they would be opening two downtown grocery stores.

But the stores had some hiccups and didn't open last year as they tentatively planned.

Cameron says he will still open his store Cam's Grocery. He's still waiting for the funding to fall into place and hopes to open this summer.

Just up the street on Archer and Detroit isn't what Cameron calls competition, but a store that will compliment his own -- Archer Market.

"We both believe that what we are doing is a very complimentary operation," said Scott Smith, Archer Market Grocer Manager. "This could be what you call a more downtown convenience store."

Smith says once they get the plumbing and electricity in place they'll be ready to move in.

"I'm really excited," he said. "This is a great opportunity to do something very creative with food, whether it be prepared food or stocking the shelves with fun food."

Archer Market will feature deli meats, a coffee bar and cafe too. Smith says they are aiming to have the doors open by mid-June.

"Without access to groceries, downtown Tulsa is just another food desert much like North Tulsa or West Tulsa," Smith said.

Archer Market is now hiring.