City of Hartford Builds for the Future

Change is occuring throughout the city of Hartford as internationally popular coffee chain Starbucks and new grocery option, Festival Foods, look to become a staple for the growing population in the city.

The addition of Starbucks may create some competition between a number of other coffee shops in Hartford. Starbucks will be going up between Taco Bell and the U.S. Bank, replacing the Clark gas station.

City of Hartford Mayor Timothy Michalak said, “Hartford is known for the thrift of its citizenry and $3+ for a cup of coffee could be a tough go in this market. It will be interesting to see how well this works for them.”

With Dunkin’ Donuts and McDonalds each offering coffee at a cheaper price than Starbucks there is no guaranteed success in this city. Dunkin’ has been a fundamental piece to many students' lives before school so as a competitor, Starbucks may struggle with their high prices.

Michalak said, “The Cobblestone Hotel is attracting more business travelers who used to go to West Bend or Menomonee Falls and many of them, especially those on expense accounts, like their Starbucks in the morning.” Perhaps Starbucks is looking to attract more of the adult or business consumer over the teenager who is likely on a budget.

No matter who visits Starbucks, the growing population in Hartford was what attracted the chain to build in Hartford. According to World Population Review, the city of Hartford has risen 10.66 percent since the previous census was recorded.

The current population of Hartford is 15,739 people and if the city continues to develop, the population may see continued increases.

“It would be cool to see Hartford have more options for eating and shopping,” senior Jada Erickson said, “I hate having to drive 30 minutes just to go to Target, so it would be great for Hartford to expand.” Starbucks could be a possible leader for other popular chains to follow into Hartford.

Just down the road from the new Starbucks will be Festival Foods which will be taking over the old Kmart section of the strip mall.

According to Washington County Insider, “This will be the first new grocery for the city of Hartford since Aldi opened in mid-December 2013 and Walmart opened in May 2007.” This brings excitement to many residents not only for another grocery option, but also new job opportunities.

The boom in interest for the city of Hartford is not shocking for the mayor. Michalak said, “Given all that we have here, it is no surprise that Hartford is a great place to work, live, and play. Hartford - It’s Happening Here.”