By: Sefton Fowler
TALLAHASSEE, Fla. Neighbors, city leaders and families gathered in the historic Bond
neighborhood April 3, 2026, in Tallahassee to honor the past and celebrate new growth in the community.

Curtis Richardson, mayor pro tem of Tallahassee, stood with pride as new history markers were revealed. The markers tell the story of the Bond community, one of the city’s oldest African American neighborhoods. Richardson spoke about why the moment mattered to him and to the people who grew up there.

“We want our children to know who came before them,” Richardson said. He shared that he has lived on the south side for 30 years. He and his wife chose to raise their daughters there. He said helping the community grow and shine again makes him feel proud.

Just around the corner, another piece of history is being brought back. The Old Robinson Grocery Store. The store once served families for many years. Neighbors could buy food, household items, and see friendly faces. Over time, the building became empty and damaged. Now, it is being restored.

Vanessa Williams, who grew up in the Bond neighborhood, remembers shopping at small community stores with her family. Her grandparents moved to the area in the 1930s. She said the stores were more than places to buy things. They were places where neighbors talked, laughed, and looked out for one another.

Williams said the neighborhood is now considered a food desert. Many seniors and families do not have cars. She believes reopening the store will help many people. She also hopes the new store will not sell alcohol or tobacco, so it remains a safe place for families.

“It takes a village,” Williams said. She hopes the restored store will once again become a warm meeting place where neighbors gather.

Stephen Cox, executive director of the Tallahassee Community Redevelopment Agency, said the city received a state grant to help restore the nearly 80-year-old building. Crews are repairing walls, improving entrances, and adding restrooms to make the space safe and welcoming.

Cox grew across the street from the store and attended Florida A&M University. He said being part of the project feels personal.

“For me, this is giving back to the community that raised me,” Cox said.

City leaders say the restored building will serve the neighborhood once again, whether it is a grocery store or another space that meets community needs. For many residents, the project is not just about bricks and walls. It is about hope, history, and bringing neighbors back together.