Navigating to the new Jewel-Osco store at 12803 S. Harlem Avenue in Palos Heights could have been a little tough as remnants of construction still plague the area.

But that's why staff was on hand, directing people toward the entrance to the new store and giving them a lift back to their cars -- even as temperates neared 100 degrees during the store's grand opening Thursday.

The new location is more than 50,000 square feet and will boast a number of new features that the old location was lacking, including a wing bar, expanded deli section, olive bar and a larger meat and seafood section. 

A Wendy's restaurant will begin construction after the original 45-year-old building is demolished.

Irene Gram, who lives in Darien but works near the store, said the new location is "very, very nice," as she wheeled a cart of groceries away from the store.

"It is very convenient," she added.

Jerry and Gloria, a couple who live in the area who declined to give their last name, said they were grateful that the store stayed in Palos Heights -- even though the new store came with a bit of a learning curve.

"I'm glad they didn't close it. Now I just have to learn the store all over again," Gloria said with a laugh.