GRAND ISLAND, Neb. - Grand Island is getting ready to welcome a major new retailer, with Target officially opening its first-ever store in the city, and the first new Target built in Nebraska in nearly two decades.

The nearly 150,000 square-foot store in Conestoga Marketplace includes 16,000 feet of fresh produce, plus a Starbucks, CVS Pharmacy and an Apple shop.

Target calls the Grand Island location a “North Star” store, which is a new hybrid format that combines features of a Super Target and traditional store.

The site employs more than 160 people, and Target hosted its first soft-opening Tuesday to thank staff and give the community a first look inside.

"The last Target that was built in Nebraska was 2006. This is the new first Target in almost 20 years, so it's pretty exciting to be a part of that," said Store Director Eryn Larsen.  "Word on the street is that a lot of people can't wait to get into the building, and we're excited to welcome them. The team put in a lot of heart into getting the store where it's at, and we can't wait to officially open the doors," she added.

The store’s soft openings continue throughout the week, with the grand opening officially set for October 12.

Store officials say the crew has been preparing since early June, and hopes the Grand Island store can set a new standard for future locations.