By Clyde Noel

Known for its mix of high-quality products and reasonable prices, Trader Joe’s expects to open its next store Oct. 3 at Foothill Plaza on Homestead Road in south Los Altos.

“The building is still in a framed condition,” said Gary Ross of Los Altos, who is the general contractor for the project. “It may appear impossible to complete by the opening; but everyone, including the subcontractors, are cooperating to make this happen.”

Ross said he doesn’t report to Trader Joe’s; he reports to shopping center owner Tom Herrington because the entire shopping center will be upgraded after Trader Joe’s is completed.

Two weeks ago Friday, Herrington started the update by planting exotic palm trees that circle the front of the center.

The building is constructed next to the Chevron gas station and has drawn a lot of interest from passersby. Many Trader Joe’s customers are anxiously waiting for the store to open, since most of the products are available only in its stores. Customers even trade tips on what to try.

One construction supervisor peeking through the boards said he can’t wait for the store to open so he can get those bite-sized pretzels filled with real, creamy peanut butter, also the addictive cheddar popcorn he munches on while watching television.

Ross said even the city is helping to keep the grand opening on time.

“We had all those rains in April and that set us back,” Ross said. “But the city of Los Altos building department has cooperated so we can meet our deadline.”

Trader Joe’s has 194 stores in 17 states. The product lineup and prices have made Trader Joe’s a priority on a lot of people’s grocery lists.