The pharmacy is located in the Northridge Shopping Center. It’s been more than 20 years since the former Northridge Pharmacy, then owned by Al Powell, closed its doors, Carson said.
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“It was doing great at the time so when he shut down, it left a big void for a lot of the people here,” she said. “A lot of those same people have been coming in now for me and telling me they missed having something here and close by.”
The new 2,400-square-foot pharmacy had a soft opening about a week ago and is finalizing agreements with a couple remaining insurance companies, she said. Carson graduated with a doctorate in pharmacy from Ohio Northern University in 2008 and worked as a pharmacist and manager at Walgreens on North Limestone Street for nine years.
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Carson liked the position but said she always wanted to own her own business. Her family has owned independent businesses in Cleveland, her hometown.
“I’ve always wanted to do this,” Carson said. “It just never seemed feasible before and the opportunity never presented itself. I loved Walgreens and probably never would have left there had this opportunity not presented itself.”
There were few businesses in the neighborhood just a few years ago, Carson said. But she said several businesses have opened since, and she’s already seen support from several neighbors, including TanLines Salon, Razor’s Edge Family Hair Care and Market at the Ridge.
Owning her own business will allow Carson to spend more time talking with customers, she said. Carson has hired two technicians, but is also planning to hire a part-time pharmacist as the business expands.
The business will also eventually offer an emergency phone line in case customers have serious concerns after normal business hours.
It’s nice to watch the neighborhood add more businesses, Carson said. SmartAsset, a consumer finance website, recently listed Northridge as the healthiest housing market in the state and third best in the nation. The ranking was based on affordability, how long owners lived in their homes and ease of sale.
“It’s such a growing area right now,” Carson said. “I love the area and I love that people are putting their own businesses out here.”
If you go:
What: Grand opening for Carson’s Northridge Pharmacy
When: 1 to 3 p.m. Saturday, May 13
Where: 4923 Security Dr., Springfield. The event will include a DJ, a raffle, giveaways and more
Hours: The business will be open from 9 am. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday and 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday. It will be closed on Sundays and holidays.
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