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Cornersburg Sparkle getting a makeover
By DAVID SKOLNICK
YOUNGSTOWN
The only full-service grocery store in the city’s Cornersburg area is undergoing a $600,000 improvement project.
The Sparkle Super Market in the Cornersburg Plaza on South Meridian Road is renovating its exterior storefront, expanding its lobby entrance and demolishing a small building on the plaza’s southwest side.
City council voted Wednesday to authorize the board of control to waive the building-permit fees, about $2,000, for the Sparkle project.
“It’s a cornerstone of the neighborhood,” said Councilman Paul Drennen, D-5th. The grocery store is in his ward, and he said he frequently shops there.
“Sparkle is making a long-term commitment to the area,” Drennen added. “I’m happy they’re doing this. The city is willing to do whatever we can to help maintain and grow businesses.”
The store was built in 1969. It is one of only a handful of full-service grocery stores left in Youngstown.
The improvement project is expected to start shortly, said city Finance Director David Bozanich.
Giant Eagle closed its Cornersburg store on Canfield Road on July 12, 2008, leaving Sparkle as the only full-service grocery store in that area of the city.
Giant Eagle officials said at the time that the decision was based on financial reasons.
Cocca Development of Boardman purchased the former Giant Eagle property for $550,000 in May 2009.
About half of the property is a Dollar General store, but the rest remains vacant.