Constantino's Market, a Cleveland-based chain that opened a store at the new College Town development off Mt. Hope Avenue last April, will close on April 13th.
Andrew Revy, an official with Constantino's says his company was pleased to open a store to meet what they heard about a demand for their kind of grocery store, but he says "ultimately, that was simply not the case." Revy says they still have high regard for the College Town project.
Randy Ruttenberg, a principal with the developer of College Town, Fairmount Properties, says through the planning process a grocery store was identified as a highly desired tenant, but unfortunately Constantino's "was ultimately not supported at a level that allowed them to be profitable."
University of Rochester President Joel Seligman says the U of R is working with Fairmount to evaluate the best options for the 20,000 square-foot space, and he says there are a number of strong possibilities. Seligman says overall, College Town has been very successful, and he says that its occupancy rate is now at 90 percent.
Ruttenberg says other businesses at the development, including the Hilton Garden Inn and its restaurant continue to exceed expectations. He says within that industry, there is always going to be some attrition within any development.
Mayor Lovely Warren issued this statement:
"I am disappointed to learn that Constantino's Market is leaving College Town," said Mayor Lovely Warren. "I know this news will be difficult for our neighbors who are currently employed there, along with their families. The University of Rochester's College Town is a dynamic development within our community and it has brought many jobs to our city and its residents. The City of Rochester remains deeply committed to working with College Town to help attract new employers in general, and specifically to fill this most recent void, because we know that more jobs lead to safer more vibrant neighborhoods and better educational opportunities for our residents."
