Columbia police ready to help if traffic problems arise outside Trader Joe’s

COLUMBIA, Mo. (KMIZ)

Columbia police officers could be on hand to help with traffic outside the new Trader Joe's all weekend.

Mid-Missouri residents welcomed Trader Joe's Thursday morning, as the grocery store officially opened its doors at 9 a.m. The opening of the store attracted many shoppers.

Some expressed traffic concerns about the opening in a congested area, but store captain Pamela Volk said she has invited Columbia Police Department officers to help with traffic all opening weekend.

An officer was directing traffic outside the store Thursday afternoon.

The store is located at 201 N. Stadium Blvd. at The Shoppes on Stadium, where several businesses, including Men’s Warehouse, Five Below and other stores are located.

The area is known for congestion with Home Goods and Chick-fil-A nearby. The streets likely to see the most traffic are North Stadium Boulevard, West Worley Street and West Ash Street.

On Wednesday, A CPD spokesperson said extra officers will be assigned to the area, and some off-duty officers will work traffic control.

In a statement from the City of Columbia, it said: "It should be noted that the city will be watching traffic volumes and impacts on the adjacent street network following the opening of these businesses to become aware of any adjustments that might need to be made to the signal timing at Worley and the Mall signal or any signage or striping that might be necessary on the surrounding streets."

Employees will park in designated spots behind the store.

Trader Joe's will be open from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. and will hold a ribbon-cutting ceremony at 8:55 a.m.

Around two dozen shoppers began forming a line outside of Trader Joe's just before 6:30 a.m., all bringing several items to keep warm as they wait for the doors to open.

According to Trader Joe's Store Captain Pamela Volk, employees will be handing out chips and free reusable Trader Joe's bags to customers.