Trader Joe’s | Missoula Is Calling (Again)

Trader Joe’s, Missoula is calling (again). 

In partnership with the Missoula Midtown Association, Sterling CRE hosted November’s Midtown Mixer. And while another Zoom call might sound boring, the Midtown business community had some fun ideas for expanding the growing district.

Midtown professionals answered the following questions: 

What retail, restaurant or other business would you like to see come to Midtown?

  • Trader Joe’s (coming in hot with several votes)
  • Cheesecake Factory
  • Aldi
  • Olive Garden 

What’s the best place to get a coffee in Midtown?

  • Drum 
  • Starbucks 

What’s the best restaurant in Midtown?

  • Rumor (a popular choice!)
  • Mustard Seed

Development Trends 

Since 2017, the majority of new construction in the Midtown area has been housing. 

That’s no surprise, given Missoula’s limited developable land and rising population. Multifamily construction accounted for 27% of new builds, with for sale residential developments representing another 6%. 

Retail brought home 24% of new construction since 2017, largely due to expansions at the Southgate Mall. Tim Winger reported Scheels construction is moving forward, with the 100,000 square foot space also bringing 150 jobs to the area. 

Fairgrounds Update 

Development at the Missoula County Fairgrounds is also in motion. Director Emily Brock lent a few key stats to the Midtown Mixer. Renovations to the Commercial and Culinary Arts buildings are complete, with new permanent concessions, a historic plaza and a new trail network coming to life. 

The next phase of the project, including a portion of the new ice facility, is estimated to cost $25,000,000. Funding will come from a mix of private and public funds. 

In Planning

Overall, commercial development didn’t slow as much as projected for Missoula’s Midtown. In 2020, ten projects wrapped up. Those included the brand new Blackfoot River Outfitters on Russell, a big remodel at Clearwater Credit Union (nee Missoula Federal Credit Union), and a few small multifamily housing complexes. 

And in spite of the economic conditions, some new construction made progress. From self-storage to residential buildings, several projects are making headway.  

However, with a snowy and especially wet winter ahead, that means some projects might not break ground until 2021.

It Wouldn’t Be a Sterling CRE Update Without…

A new brewery is on its way to the Trempers Shopping Plaza off Brooks Street. We’re excited to give Oddpitch Brewing a try. The emphasis on “odd” will, says Oddpitch, extend to an eclectic beer selection. We’re here for it. 

Thanks to the Missoula Midtown Association for partnering with Sterling CRE host the November Mixer.

Questions about Midtown development and listings? Contact the Sterling CRE team.

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