SPOKANE, Wash. — A new liquor and grocery store has opened in the East Central neighborhood of Spokane, sparking mixed reactions from local residents.
Altamont Liquor and Grocery opened on Oct. 31st of this year on the corner of Fifth Ave and Altamont St, just a few blocks from the Fred Meyer store at Thor and Freya.
The building underwent extensive renovations, costing about $750,000, transforming a once vacant and empty property.
However, some neighbors have expressed safety concerns about having alcohol sales so close to their homes.
“Alcohol being sold that close to my house. It feels dangerous to me. It doesn’t feel safe,” said Darlene, a local resident. “We have children and families that live here.”
Store owner Joey Bains says safety is a top priority. He maintains the business complies with all laws and regulations regarding alcohol sales.
Bains noted that alcohol and vape products make up only about 15 percent of the store’s shelf space, with the majority stocked with other grocery and convenience items.
While some neighbors have shown their support the new local business online, others worry about its impact on neighborhood peace.
Darlene says the neon store signs and late operating hours disturb the nearby community.
“At night they have all the lights going in the flashes. It looks like a casino type of thing. And it brightens up our whole neighborhood in a negative way,” Darlene said.
Parking concerns also have been raised because customers park on residential streets, and delivery trucks have blocked visibility at the corner.
But Bains highlighted improvements from the renovation in a statement he shared with KXLY – including new sidewalks, ramps and stairs, aimed at bringing business and vitality to the neighborhood.
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