Cupertino Whole Foods remains closed over 4 months after vermin infestation

(KRON) — A South Bay Whole Foods location that was closed earlier this year due to a vermin infestation remains closed more than four months later. The Cupertino Whole Foods location at 20955 Stevens Creek Blvd. was closed back in April after an inspection by the County of Santa Clara Department of Environmental Health uncovered evidence of a vermin infestation.

Initially, just two departments at the location — the deli and bakery — were ordered closed. The health department later suspended the store’s operating permit, resulting in the entire store’s temporary closure.

On Monday, a county representative confirmed that the store remained closed for remodeling.

“Currently, Whole Foods in Cupertino remains closed,” said Department of Environmental Health Director, Marilyn Underwood in a statement to KRON4. “In July, Whole Foods started the process with the Department of Environmental Health (DEH) and the City of Cupertino to remodel the store.”

Underwood said the city has approved the store’s remodeling plans and DEH approved revised plans on Monday, allowing construction to begin.

Prior to being allowed to reopen, DEH will review the store’s plan for renovation. Whole Foods will also undergo a separate DEH inspection for vermin to ensure the store meets health requirements.

“When a facility is closed for a major violation, the length of the facility closure is based on how quickly the business corrects the problem and passes reinspection,” said Underwood.