North Killeen Residents Desperate: Where’s Our Grocery Store?

As a proud resident of the city of Killeen for most of my life, there haven’t been many things I’ve asked for when it comes to the community. As neighbors, we look out for each other—and when someone needs something, we do the best we can with the resources we have. But if I had to make one complaint, it would be this: ever since IGA left the north side of Killeen, we’ve been without a grocery store—and that’s a problem.

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Beyond the Numbers: The Human Impact of North Killeen's Food Desert

A few years ago, IGA Foodliner closed its doors, leaving the North Side without a grocery store—except for the H-E-B located downtown. Residents knew once IGA was gone, H-E-B would be the only option. Unfortunately, that too was short-lived. The downtown H-E-B eventually closed as well, and it's allegedly tied to a clause that prevents another grocery store from opening in that location for 55 years. Currently, the beloved community activist and event planner Carolyn Brown occupies that space with the Killeen E-Center. Residents appreciate and support the work being done there—but it still leaves a big question: what does this mean for access to groceries?

Solving the Problem: The Case for a North Killeen Grocery Store

I've spoken with people who live throughout the area, and they all say the same thing: having to hop on Highway 439 just to pick up a few grocery items is incredibly inconvenient. No one should have to drive to the next town over just to grab an onion or do basic shopping. I don’t know exactly what the long-term plans are for the North Side—but what I do know is that it's time for something new. Not only do we deserve better—we need it, and we need it as soon as possible.