Costco announces official opening date for Ann Arbor area store
The Costco warehouse store construction site in Pittsfield Township in February.
Lizzy Alfs | AnnArbor.com
The store just south of the city limits of Ann Arbor will open July 26.
Costco is building a 148,000-square-foot store with 720 parking spaces and a gasoline station, located on a 17-acre site in the Airport Plaza industrial park near the corner of State and Ellsworth behind Tyner’s Furniture store.
A helicopter hoisted 14 HVAC units -- one by one -- onto the Costco roof in February.
Nathan Bomey | AnnArbor.com
Signs at the site read “Coming Soon: Opening Summer 2012,” and the company recently posted the official opening date on its website.
Costco has not announced its hiring plans and there don’t appear to be any online job postings yet.
Final plans for the project received approval from the Pittsfield Township Planning Commission in early August, and local developer Jake Haas sold the land to Costco Wholesale Corp. in September for $7.34 million, according to township documents.
Crews started demolition of eight office buildings in late September, and construction moved quickly this winter thanks in part to favorable weather. The contractor for the project is Seattle-based Jackson Dean Construction.
The building’s steel structure was erected in December and a helicopter hoisted 14 HVAC units onto the roof in February.
Work even continued at the site in 0 degree Fahrenheit weather one day in January.
Lizzy Alfs is a business reporter for AnnArbor.com. Reach her at 734-623-2584 or email her at lizzyalfs@annarbor.com. Follow her on Twitter at http://twitter.com/lizzyalfs.
Comments
15crown00
Fri, Apr 6, 2012 : 8:49 p.m.
the fun begins.more traffic added to an already congested area.
Terrin
Fri, Apr 6, 2012 : 12:43 a.m.
Seriously? Costco stinks. You pay for a membership. You pay more for larger quantities and last years goods. Finally, for most items Sams' Club is cheaper (and that stinks too). Finally, why does every place have to have the exact same thing as every other place? Like Brighten and Canton were really far.
Trouble
Thu, Apr 5, 2012 : 3:58 p.m.
Thankyou Scio Twp., thank you!
David Paris
Thu, Apr 5, 2012 : 2:39 a.m.
Cost... YAWN... co!
JRW
Wed, Apr 4, 2012 : 11:17 p.m.
Roundabouts in Washtenaw County are far too small to work. Cars zoom through without looking, trucks and buses are driving on the elevated center and some trucks nearly tip over due to speed and instability, no one yields to traffic already IN the roundabout. Poor decision to add a roundabout near Costco. Give them their own light and entrance like IKEA in Canton. No roundabout needed.
Halter
Wed, Apr 4, 2012 : 11:34 p.m.
Absolutely 100% agree with you. It's one of the main reasons I have stopped going to Brighton to Costco because I HATE those roundabouts that are downright dangerous....and when I do go, I get off an exit early and take the access road up and back, as to hundreds of others....
Macabre Sunset
Wed, Apr 4, 2012 : 10:46 p.m.
That might be the worst programmed traffic light in the area, though. It assumes Ellsworth is a side street, and waits are so excessive that I see people occasionally running the light. Hopefully it will get reprogrammed when Costco opens - a dedicated entrance lane into the property will help. I'm wondering about left turns out onto Ellsworth, though. The good news is that if the intersection is designed properly and the lights programmed properly, it can handle a lot more traffic. That's probably why Costco chose it.
15crown00
Fri, Apr 6, 2012 : 8:51 p.m.
good luck with the design?
applehazar
Wed, Apr 4, 2012 : 7:27 p.m.
Maybe Costco doesn't need to sell Wine - there is enough winning here about the traffic to serve us all! Welcome Costco - look forward to shopping and filling up with your cheaper gas often!
jns131
Wed, Apr 4, 2012 : 10:36 p.m.
Costco will sell cheese to go with that whine....um.....wine.
pseudo
Wed, Apr 4, 2012 : 5:47 p.m.
I am local for food and local first for everything else except: paper goods, electronics, and various other things that really aren't made or sold by local stores plus this will draw me to the Zing's as a treat. I am WAY looking forward to COSTCO being here and I am excited about this date.
Harry
Wed, Apr 4, 2012 : 4:43 p.m.
The people at cosco are the real hero's
tomnspats
Wed, Apr 4, 2012 : 3:55 p.m.
The up side of all this is the fact that Costco treats its employees with respect.There is a lot of difference how Costco and its competitors treat their workers.Welcome to Washtenaw county ,lets set a new standard.
Shankar
Wed, Apr 4, 2012 : 3:19 p.m.
I am also very eager to see Costco coming here. As far the expected traffic increase, the Washtenaw road commission has plans to widen the roads and have a modern roundabout at the State st / Ellsworth intersection See http://www.wcroads.org/news/notices/022912-StateAtEllsworth.htm I live close to the Walmart & the FEDEX business and remember all the shoting about the traffic through the subdivisions. I have not seen any appreciable increase due to these businesses. Here are some interesting topics about modern day roundabouts, myths & facts. http://www.wcroads.org/news/roundabouts/roundabout-index.htm
Ron Granger
Wed, Apr 4, 2012 : 2:25 p.m.
Great - now how do you safely walk across I-94 on State Street? How about bike? Pedestrians have been killed and seriously injured by vehicles on that section of road. Hello, Ann Arbor City Council? Is anyone there?
PE #1
Wed, Apr 4, 2012 : 2:05 p.m.
As if we needed any more diversion of customer flow from local businesses.
Nina Brennan
Thu, Apr 5, 2012 : 12:16 a.m.
which "local grocery" do you pretend to shop at?
lumberg48108
Wed, Apr 4, 2012 : 1:41 p.m.
while I await the opening of the store to the area several comments have hit close to home as far as traffic. One of the many reasons I live in Washtenaw County is the lack of congestion and though there are some traffic backups, most are relegated to rush hours. In Oakland or Macomb county, traffic backups on normal roads is common. I was on Clinton River Road at 11 am on a Sunday and was stopped dead in traffic; there are no stores near and only a golf course was close by ( It was bad weather too) so I could not find a reason why other then "this is how it is out here" and one of the reasons I will never live in those areas. The grid system (mile roads and intersecting streets) leads to slow moving traffic everywhere at all times of the day. I just want to make sure Washtenaw County never becomes what those areas are
JRW
Wed, Apr 4, 2012 : 11:14 p.m.
Many areas are already very congested and there are many accidents on surrounding highways almost on a daily basis: M-14, 23 N&S through A2, I-94 through A2, etc.
impsterboy
Wed, Apr 4, 2012 : 1:32 p.m.
It's good to have this important date. I can plan when to begin avoiding this area of Washtenaw County. I feel for anyone who now drives through this area for employment. They're going to be spending much more time in traffic. This area is already a mess to pass through during rush hour.
djacks24
Wed, Apr 4, 2012 : 1:48 p.m.
Way ahead of you. I had traveled that intersection once a day (from work to gym daily) up until a little over a year ago. Even with the time I save now, I'm very happy I changed gyms to avoid it.
packman
Wed, Apr 4, 2012 : 1:10 p.m.
Maybe the Ann Arbor Airport will become a "destination" for fly-in shoppers. Fly in, walk across the road, have lunch, shop a little, and fly home.
Britain W.
Thu, Apr 5, 2012 : 5:22 p.m.
Someone write it up: http://www.funplacestofly.com/list.asp?st=MI
jns131
Wed, Apr 4, 2012 : 10:35 p.m.
That would be a hoot. Drive by Costco. A shuttle to and from Costco. Love it.
tdw
Wed, Apr 4, 2012 : 2:18 p.m.
packman.....That was mildly amusing.. Cindy....I think this thumbs up thumbs down thing is turning into a childish game
CindyY
Wed, Apr 4, 2012 : 1:52 p.m.
OMG -- my bellylaugh for the day.
Jim Osborn
Wed, Apr 4, 2012 : 12:55 p.m.
The lane lines wear off after a few months and need to be repainted frequented. The ones at Maple are long gone. This nearby traffic circle, which is designed to have dual lanes, will lead to confusion as long as the County Road Commission and the City of Ann Arbor fail to keep repainting the lane lines indicating that it is two lanes and not a single lane traffic circle. If people treat it as a single lane, the capacity will be cut in half, causing traffic jams or accidents. I see enough problems with people turning left from Ann Arbor Saline Road onto Waters to go to Best Buy / Meijers.
johnnya2
Wed, Apr 4, 2012 : 4:23 p.m.
You mean the SIGNS are not enough? If you cant figure it out from the signs and need a painted road, I suggest staying off the road and saving the rest of us.
thinker
Wed, Apr 4, 2012 : 12:55 p.m.
Is a round-a-bout planned with special instructions for seniors?
jrigglem
Fri, Apr 6, 2012 : 12:58 a.m.
Who was the genius that thought roundabouts were a good idea at that corner? They must not have had to ever sit on that corner during rush hour.
tdw
Wed, Apr 4, 2012 : 2:46 p.m.
Aries....Nothing is meant to be insulting.There is a difference, in general, between a 65 year old and a 78 year old like my mom. Man...... I hope it warms up outside so I can get off this computer
Arieswoman
Wed, Apr 4, 2012 : 2:34 p.m.
Well, I am a senior and I can do round abouts! Why do you younger folk feel we are so incapable? I think it is insulting to seniors with these remarks.
tdw
Wed, Apr 4, 2012 : 1:25 p.m.
Good point.If I can help it I won't let my mother go anywhere near them " mom I'll drive you "
Lizzy Alfs
Wed, Apr 4, 2012 : 1:02 p.m.
Yes, there is a roundabout planned. And the Pittsfield Township Supervisor promised there will be 'practice runs' with seniors. You can read the store here: http://www.annarbor.com/business-review/roundabout-on-south-state-we-will-have-practice-runs-with-seniors-pittsfield-township-supervisor-say/
hermhawk
Wed, Apr 4, 2012 : 12:34 p.m.
I am looking forward to that day. If I am in town I'll be there when it opens. Now I don't have to drive to either Livonia store. My only concern is the pending roundabout. I wonder if people will get used to it. I don't mind, especially now that I have adjusted to the ones on Geddes Road by US-23 and the one in Superior Township.
a2miguy
Wed, Apr 4, 2012 : 2:23 p.m.
Oh, how sad the plight of those who will never get used to the roundabout. No, hermhawk, people will never ever get used to it as long as we live. 40 years from now, we will see people still approaching, stopping, crying, and still wishing they could somehow get used to something they've known for 40 years.
jns131
Wed, Apr 4, 2012 : 1:16 p.m.
If you have adjusted to those two there? You will be fine with that one as well. On a good day? You can sail thru one of those at top notch speed. Not.
applehazar
Wed, Apr 4, 2012 : 12:15 p.m.
Did Costco get their liquor sale license?
shutthefrtdoor
Wed, Apr 4, 2012 : 2:06 p.m.
Lizzy...you rock! You seem to be very informed about this. Thank you very much! : )
Lizzy Alfs
Wed, Apr 4, 2012 : 1:05 p.m.
Here's the latest I know: Township Supervisor Mandy Grewal said a few weeks ago that Costco had applied to the state for the license.
Joe Hood
Wed, Apr 4, 2012 : 12:14 p.m.
Lousy traffic usually means bicycles rule but not in the case going from Ann Arbor to Pittsfield Township. What is the deal with the i94 crossings from Ann Arbor? With exception of Scio Church Road, you're competing on artillery ravage pavement.
walker101
Wed, Apr 4, 2012 : 12:12 p.m.
It will be interesting to see if the gas prices will be more competitive if the store has a gas station, Ann Arbor in general has been about 10% higher in vs the outlying areas when it comes to buying gas.
15crown00
Fri, Apr 6, 2012 : 8:55 p.m.
depends on the area,the station, the day,and the week.
jrigglem
Fri, Apr 6, 2012 : 12:57 a.m.
Hahahaha! Ann Arbor was more expensive when I lived in Ypsi, now that I live back in Tecumseh, Ann Arbor is cheap. Tecumseh is at least 20 cents higher on a daily basis. I always try to fill up before heading home.
Britain W.
Thu, Apr 5, 2012 : 5:06 p.m.
You can also use your bank's ATM card with your PIN to buy fuel at Costco, but you have to swipe a Costco membership card first. They only accept Amex for credit transactions in the store or in the fuel stations.
dan
Thu, Apr 5, 2012 : 12:12 a.m.
Costco samples 5 staions within a 5 mile radius to match or beat the low price. Usually that is Sam's. You need an AmerExpress or prepaid Costco cash card to buy gas.
Halter
Wed, Apr 4, 2012 : 11:29 p.m.
Sams CLub already has discounted gas...and it hasn't made any difference
JRW
Wed, Apr 4, 2012 : 11:18 p.m.
It's called: Let's see how much we can rip off A2! EVERYTHING is more expensive here.
a2grateful
Wed, Apr 4, 2012 : 11:27 a.m.
It will probably be open well before the Hieftje and Lowenstein underground Hilton . . .
hockeymom
Wed, Apr 4, 2012 : 10:54 a.m.
Does anyone know if COSTCO offers gasoline like Sam's does on Carpenter?
Sparty
Wed, Apr 4, 2012 : 2:18 p.m.
This article says it does - did you read it ?
Paula Gardner
Wed, Apr 4, 2012 : 11:27 a.m.
They did approve a gas station as part of the plans. It'll be on the north side of the store.
Hot Sam
Wed, Apr 4, 2012 : 11:19 a.m.
Every one I know of does....
Alxmen
Wed, Apr 4, 2012 : 10:42 a.m.
Location works for me but what happens to traffic remains to be seen.
Chandelle German
Wed, Apr 4, 2012 : 10:39 a.m.
So excited.....Can we put an Arby's close by or a Cracker Barrel? :)
Mitch
Thu, Apr 5, 2012 : 11:47 a.m.
The "Old Country Buffet" location is near by and avaiable for rent.
jns131
Wed, Apr 4, 2012 : 10:32 p.m.
mun? You have not lived until you have eaten at a Golden Corral. OCB? Yuck. Try the one out on Wayne and Newburg. Yum.
mun
Wed, Apr 4, 2012 : 9:13 p.m.
"What that area really needs is a Golden Corral." Uh, they just closed the Country Buffet on Eisenhower.
bobslowson
Wed, Apr 4, 2012 : 6:16 p.m.
My comment was removed ...why? Because I said that cracker Barrell discriminates against minorities and homosexuals? I know A2.com ...the truth hurts. They paid out over 8 million dollars in lawsuits. http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,131897,00.html
jns131
Wed, Apr 4, 2012 : 1:13 p.m.
smc? Golden Corral period. We need a great buffet place. Guess I know where I am going for dinner next week. Thanks for the suggestion.
SMC
Wed, Apr 4, 2012 : 1:03 p.m.
What that area really needs is a Golden Corral. Chocolate waterfall, anyone?
Arieswoman
Wed, Apr 4, 2012 : 10:50 a.m.
I vote for Cracker Barrel. Seems to me that Jackson and Belleville has one and why not Ann Arbor?
Halter
Wed, Apr 4, 2012 : 10:29 a.m.
Yeah!! It's on my calendar! No more trips to Brighton!
PattyinYpsi
Wed, Apr 4, 2012 : 1:07 p.m.
My supply of EVOO is getting low, so I'll be there on opening day! Cannot WAIT!
jondhall
Wed, Apr 4, 2012 : 10:14 a.m.
I hope someone has the traffic flow figured out that intersection is already very busy. I'm sure with all the great minds at Pittsfield Township that was done already. We Welcome you Costco at least we did not have all the uproar that was made over the Wal-mart Store. Believe it or not Capitalism WORKS!
AAW
Wed, Apr 4, 2012 : 4:50 p.m.
the round about is not to be started until spring 2013 and will be done in time for the football season.
Basic Bob
Wed, Apr 4, 2012 : 1:30 p.m.
What, no one chained herself to a bulldozer?
jns131
Wed, Apr 4, 2012 : 1:14 p.m.
I am thinking the round abouts will be in place by then?