INNISFAIL – Suddenly the town is seeing a spectacular jump with commercial development.
With the late summer start of a $2 million Shoppers Drug Mart development at the east-side No Frills Innisfail parking lot, Innisfail is also seeing a $1.65 million mini-mall project begin at the intersection of Main Street (50 Street) and 46 Avenue.
As well, there has been an additional $691,000 worth of commercial development this year, which includes a $500,000 façade upgrade project at Henday Mall.
Meghan Jenkins, director of community services for the Town of Innisfail, said the total value of commercial building permits so far in 2023 is now sitting at $4,341,000.
The 2023 totals far exceed figures for all of 2022 when the town recorded 22 commercial building permits with a total value of $556,000.
“Hopefully, it (growth) is because these developers are seeing growth potential in the community and seeing opportunities,” said Jenkins when asked about the renewed commercial development interest in town.
As for the commercial development at Main Street and 46 Avenue, it will have a total footprint of 7,750 square feet.
Jenkins said the development, which is expected to be completed and operating by the summer of 2024, will have five bays or room for five single-floor businesses.
She said the new mini-mall will front to the west on 46 Avenue.
“The plan does include a drive-thru as well,” said Jenkins. “I don’t know whose it is going to be, but one of the units will have the ability to utilize it like a drive-thru that will go around the back of the building.”
