To help finance an expansion of the Williamson Street Grocery Co-op on Madison's near east side, the Board of Directors of the Co-op has set a goal of raising $400,000 through the sale of Co-op Bonds. The Co-op has secured a bank loan of up to $1.8 million dollars with Johnson Bank and Madison Development Corporation. The total cost of the project is estimated to be $2.9 million dollars.

Paid-in-full Co-op members are eligible to purchase the bonds, thereby supporting the growth of the Co-op, the economic development of the neighborhood, and receiving a healthy return on their investment. Everyone is welcome to join the Co-op--and enjoy member prices and benefits. Co-op members own the Co-op, use its services, and participate in its governance.

In March of 1998, the Co-op's members voted 1004 to 35 in support of a plan to purchase the Eagle's Club, across the street from the Co-op's present location on Williamson Street. "We've spent several years gathering input from our members and investigating options for the future of the Co-op. The idea of purchasing the Eagle's club property and keeping the Co-op in the neighborhood has been overwhelmingly supported by our members. Their involvement in the process has been invaluable to the project and their enthusiasm for the move continues to be the best reason I know to do it."

Incorporated in September of 1973, Willy Street Co-op was born into a politically charged atmosphere--its founders felt a need to make a statement to support an alternative way of life. Four expansions and nearly 25 years later, the members of Willy Street Co-op have a dream--to expand the Co-op to serve the growing demand for natural foods and neighborhood service in Madison. They want to continue to provide alternatives--the finest in natural and organic foods; a safe, participatory workplace; support for local businesses and suppliers--in a larger store that is operated efficiently for the long-term benefit of members and the community.

The new store will be 60% larger than the old one, and will feature a juice bar, a salad bar, and a staffed vitamin/supplement/personal care department. The produce, grocery, and deli departments will be expanded, and two register lanes will be added.

In addition to offering an expanded selection of natural foods and services to shoppers, the expansion will make stocking and prepping food easier for the Co-op staff. Planned improvements include a professionally designed food service kitchen and storage/prep areas conveniently located on the main floor. The new store will also meet or exceed the requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, making shopping at the Co-op accessible to a wider customer base.

"This expansion would not be possible without the continued support of Co-op members, shoppers, and the community. In the spirit of cooperation, we want the success of this project to be traced directly to the efforts of the people who are working together to make our dream of a larger store come true," said Doug Johnson, Co-op Board President.


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