News that Target was purchasing the former Kmart building in West Ellicott with plans to open a new store in the next few years was greeted with excitement this week.

“This is a big deal for our area,” said area resident Sarah DelPozzo.

Christine Hilyer, another local resident, said she believes the new development is “great.” She is glad to see there will be another option for shopping locally.

Karen Johnson-Sowa added that the new Target store will be “great news for our area.”

“Target is a quality retailer,” she said.

Ellicott Town Supervisor Pat McLaughlin confirmed Thursday that the former Kmart property was being purchased by the real estate arm of Target. The building is located at 975 Fairmount Ave., located in the Wegmans and Home Depot plaza. Later that day, a Target representative confirmed with The Post-Journal that the retail corporation has plans to open a store in the next few years.

“We’re excited to bring an easy, safe and convenient shopping experience to new guests in this community with this new Target store. Located at 975 Fairmount Ave., the store will be approximately 117,000 square feet,” the spokesperson said in an email. “As we get closer to opening the store, we’ll have more specific details to share — including how the shopping experience will be tailored to serve local guests and the grand opening date.”

Jason Wood, a local resident, said he is excited at the possibility of remaining close to home when shopping.

“I’m excited I don’t have to drive to Buffalo or Erie for things I can only get at Target,” he said.

Jessie Anderson said she is thrilled to have more options; she hopes the new store will spread to other retail spots.

Justin Thorp said he feels having a Target come to the area is “awesome news.”

“We need a Chic-Fil-A and a Texas Roadhouse next,” he added.

One resident, Stephanie Monn, said is glad to see more jobs being brought to the area, but that she “doesn’t understand the fascination” with Target.

Kelly Briffa said her family is “beyond thrilled.” She said her son has been on a dairy replacement for seven years, and Wegmans has stopped carrying the product.

“Target is our only source,” she said. “We are super excited to be able to buy it locally.”

Anna Miles said she is also excited about the future store, and she is “excited for a new place to shop.”

George Fuller Sr. said he is glad to hear Target is investing in the county and will “help bring the tax base in line for other stores” to invest in the county as well.

Various other residents said they appreciated the fact that there will be a larger retailer available outside what is available, such as Walmart, and are excited to see further economic development in the Jamestown area.