NORWICH — When the Grand Union store at 54 East Main Street in Norwich announced its' closure last week, City of Norwich Mayor Robert Jeffrey held discussions with local, state, and federal officials looking for solutions to replace the only grocery store located in the city.

The quick announcement leaves officials with about a thirty day window of time before the actual closing, set for the end of February.

“This is a priority, we don't have a lot of time,” said Jeffrey. “This store is the only store in the City of Norwich.”

“I feel terrible for the employees and those that rely on the grocery store,” Jeffrey said. “Yes, there are other options but the extra expenses for grocery delivery or taxi fees will bring additional costs to family budgets on their monthly bills.”

“The area is an economy disadvantaged area and a large amounts of folks do not have reliable transportation,” he said. “Plus, the area has many senior apartments and those seniors rely on walking or short drives to the Grand Union store.”

Jeffrey said he reached out to U.S. Senator Chuck Schumer, state Senator Peter Oberacker, New York Assemblyman Josh Riley (NY-19), and Assemblyman Joseph Angelino (NY-121).