Big Box Rehab: Lowes, ALDI Eye Vacant Spaces in Fairfax

Two large retail sites may soon see new life with Lowe's and ALDI eyeing an entrance into the Fairfax City market, according to Mayor Scott Silverthorne.

Lowes is planning a redevelopment at the old Kmart location on Jermantown Rd. The large home improvement store wants to build a new, state-of-the-art facility on the Kmart site, Silverthorne said. 

Grocery and home goods chain ALDI has expressed interest in the former Office Depot building in the Kamp Washington area. With roughly a dozen stores in the Washington area, ALDI is known for avoiding traditional brands when stocking its shelves. 

“I have promised both retailers that I will ensure they have a smooth application process and that the City government will move quickly to welcome them into the 
City of Fairfax family,” Silverthorne said.

The mayor also noted the city's shrinking unemployment rate, down to 3.8 percent, is at a five-year low. Silverthorne said it was another indicator of renewed interest by businesses to locate in the city.