News Summary

Swedish furniture store IKEA announced today it will officially break ground on its West Chester Twp. location May 8. Site preparation for the 339,000 square-foot home furnishing store has been underway for a month, but the groundbreaking ceremony will mark the official construction start.

Township officials were pleased to hear the announcement.

"We all have been very enthusiastic about IKEA," said trustee Catherine Stoker. "I expect it to generate a lot of retail development in that area."

"After many months of planning, now it's time to get the ball rolling," said trustee Lee Wong. "This retail giant will pave the way for all the business around here; it will bring more jobs and money to Butler County."

The ground breaking will take place at 11 a.m. May 8 at the 56 acre parcel bordered by Allen and Muhlhauser roads.

Contact this reporter at (513) 755-5127 or mcunningham@coxohio.com.