Despite considerable speculation to the contrary, it appears Publix really is headed to Gardendale.

Gardendale Mayor Othell Phillips said the city will host a groundbreaking ceremony for Publix and T.J. Maxx on Dec. 1. He said construction will begin right away.

Phillips said he will know more information and be able to offer more details when he speaks at the Nov. 10 Greater Gardendale Chamber of Commerce luncheon.

The status of the Publix project has been debated almost since it was announced in 2009, and continued as developers changed the date on a sign facing Fieldstown Road which reflected delays in the project.

The store has been announced as a new tenant in the Northgate Village shopping center, currently home to Hobby Lobby and Dollar Tree.