After years of pining, rumors and anticipation, Idaho Falls residents are finally getting their wish. The Idaho Falls City Council has unanimously approved plans under the city's economic development incentive program to build a Costco at the intersection of Lincoln and Hitt roads.
The sprawling property will include a 150,000-square foot retail store and a gas station with up to 30 pumps. With an estimated local workforce of 100-plus employees, positions may include full benefits and wages of $15 per hour. Costco plans to break ground this fall and open up shop by late next summer.
According to Dana Briggs, the city's Economic Development Coordinator, the project will potentially spur additional economic development in the area.
“It has been a pleasure working with Costco Wholesale Corporation," she said. "The integrity of the company is evident in all coordination and communication. We look forward to working together as the Idaho Falls facility becomes a reality.”
It remains to be seen how yet another chain store in Idaho Falls will affect local businesses, but for those big-box skeptics out there, check out this encouraging assessment provided by the Association for Talent Development.
Further Reading
* Costco shopping tips! Check out this video from KSL in Salt Lake.
* A pros-and-cons study about the effects of big box retail.