Is a retail desert developing on South Bend’s west side?

SOUTH BEND, Ind. (WNDU) - In recent weeks, we’ve been talking about an apparent food desert on South Bend’s west side.

That term became a recurring part of the local vernacular when the Kroger on Western Avenue closed shop.

Now, one of two Family Dollar stores on Western Avenue is closing its doors, and we’re talking about a greater retail desert developing on the west side.

“Even up and down our business strip, we don’t even have a hardware store. We have no facilities to really provide service and just a decent living environment,” says Wendell Johnson.

Family Dollar confirmed with WNDU 16 News Now that the store at 3311 W. Western Avenue, which is located at the corner of Iowa Street and across the street from Harrison Elementary School, will be closing its doors soon .

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