The much anticipated Trader Joes grocery store is "75% done" as far as exterior work goes according to the foreman on the site who expects to have the exterior fully enclosed by the end of January when the interior work can begin.

Workmen were finishing the facade work, placing plywood panels over steel studs on Tuesday, Jan 3, while others were up doing some preliminary painting. The painting will be on hold until a stretch of dry weather will make it more reasonable.

When asked about the opening date for the store, employees in the Burien location said they believe it will be scheduled for May.

That would mean it's been a full two years since the West Seattle Herald first told you they were confirmed for the former Huling Brothers location at 4545 Fauntleroy Way s.w.

The Seattle DPD page notes that the estimated cost of the remodel is $420,000.

When complete the store will be the 17th Trader Joes location in Washington State.