Rumors of a new supermarket coming into Gray have been swirling for some time. Both Hannaford and Shaw's have been mentioned. Several months ago, the notion was that Hannaford would build a store on Portland Road.

Now it appears that Hannaford has taken a first step toward actually building a store-with many more steps to come. The area is not appropriately zoned for a market, and several homes would be affected, although it is said that many residents in the area have already expressed their approval.

Don Hutchings, of the Planning Board, said he has heard the rumors, but nothing as definite as the Hannaford press release had come forth. The project would have to come before the Board.

Caren Epstein, a Hannaford spokesperson, said, "We'd like to start working on the site as soon as possible".

Hannaford stores already exist in Windham and Falmouth; the Gray facility would hire as many as 100 full- and part-time employees.