ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (KRQE) – In a part of Albuquerque where it’s gotten harder to find fresh groceries, a newly opened food market is giving neighbors hope that things might be turning around.
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“It’s nice to finally have a place like if you want fresh produce or need some medicine or anything like that. You’re able to get to. A lot of us, a lot of my friends don’t have cars. It makes it to where you’re still able to shop and get your daily needs,” said Kyle Kamm.
The new 505 Supermarket opened two weeks ago on San Mateo near Southern. The broader neighborhood has seen more closures than development. Last year, the Walmart and Walgreens near San Mateo and Central closed their doors, with many believing crime is to blame. Months later, the Sais Food Mart burned down leaving the community in a food desert and forcing those who lived nearby to find a store elsewhere.
Hussein Nimer is the owner of the new 505 Supermarket. He said he wants to bring crucial services to the neighborhood. “I grew up around here. I would say that it’s a struggling community right now. Not the community itself but the area. We just want to bring some life back into it and stay local,” said Nimer.
The new store is open from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. Monday through Friday and accepts SNAP and EBT cards. The owner said he’s also making sure to put in security and cameras.
Nimer added he’s still working on filling the shelves and wants to hear more about what customers would like to see for sale.
The old Walmart at San Mateo and Zuni has now been closed for over a year. No plans have been announced for the property.
