In the heart of the Sacramento Valley, Chico, California, is on the cusp of significant growth and development. This city is revitalizing older buildings in its historic downtown, transforming them into vibrant retail spaces. From commercial ventures to infrastructure improvements and residential expansions, Chico is a promising destination for businesses, investors, and residents. Despite challenges such as limited industrial zones due to the Greenline restriction, Chico, CA’s growth is pushing towards the future with innovative solutions and expanding its influence beyond city limits.
Commercial Ventures
In 2024, Chico will see the arrival of several exciting additions to its retail and dining scenes. Shoe Palace is set to open, offering a diverse range of footwear and apparel, promising to elevate local shopping experiences. Raising Cane’s is expected to open in fall 2024 and will soon provide its renowned chicken finger meals, diversifying Chico’s fast-food offerings.
Five Below is gearing up to share its opening plans in summer 2024, providing affordable and trendy merchandise for residents and Chico State University students. Expanding its footprint in Chico, Panda Express is under construction as of early 2024, set to bring its popular fast-casual Chinese dishes to a new location. Additionally, Enterprise Rent-A-Car has opened a new location, providing convenient vehicle rental services to Chico’s residents and visitors.
Infrastructure Advancements
Chico’s commitment to enhancing its infrastructure is evident in the ambitious Bruce Road Reconstruction Project. This project includes road widening and intersection improvements to enhance traffic flow and safety, supporting the city’s growth.
The completion of the Bikeway 99 project’s final phase marks a milestone in promoting active living and improving connectivity across Chico. This bikeway, linking East 20th Street to Business Lane, enhances accessibility and encourages sustainable transportation throughout the city.
Residential Developments
Chico is addressing its housing needs with several new residential projects. The 2240 Nord Avenue Apartments, approved for construction, will offer 208 modern units, providing much-needed housing options. The Senator Conness Apartments, a 162-unit affordable housing project, is expected to be available for first occupancy in fall 2024, helping to meet the city’s demand for affordable living spaces.
The Barber Yard Project plans to repurpose a former industrial site into a vibrant residential community, pending necessary approvals. The Orchard Creek Estates Subdivision, near W. East Avenue and Nord Avenue, plans to introduce 74 new homes, enriching neighborhood diversity and meeting Chico’s evolving needs.
Additional residential developments include the Oleander Community Housing, which began construction in December 2023 and aims for 100% occupancy by April 2025, with an estimated completion in early 2025. The Cussick Apartments will provide 74 affordable units, with completion expected in spring 2025. The Bar Triangle Apartments, located at 2225 Bar Triangle Street, will offer 69 affordable units, with an estimated completion in December 2025.
The Foundation, a 59-unit complex funded in part by the City, will serve special needs households and opened in June 2024. Deer Creek Apartments, a 156-unit affordable housing project located on Native Oak Drive, will be available for first occupancy in July 2024, with applications now being accepted.
Healthcare and Education Developments
In healthcare, Enloe Health is set to expand Chico’s healthcare services significantly. The Gonzales Comprehensive Cancer Center is expected to be completed by summer 2026, this facility will offer advanced cancer treatment options.
The new College of Behavioral and Social Sciences Building at Chico State University will open in fall 2024. Designed as the campus’s first net-zero energy building, this structure underscores Chico’s commitment to sustainability and academic excellence.
Chico State University enrolls approximately 14,000 students and employs about 1,000 faculty and staff. The main campus spans 132 acres, offering a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs. The university’s research initiatives can attract businesses and startups, particularly in tech and innovation sectors, boosting demand for commercial spaces like offices and labs. Learn more about Chico State University.
Meriam Park
Meriam Park is a major mixed-use development in Chico, spanning 271 acres and offering a dynamic blend of residential, commercial, and community spaces. Designed to foster a vibrant community atmosphere, it presents numerous opportunities for businesses and residents alike.
The development features diverse commercial spaces, including retail units perfect for shops, restaurants, and cafes, as well as modern office buildings suited for startups, established businesses, and professional services. Flexible co-working spaces cater to freelancers, remote workers, and small businesses, while parks, recreational areas, and community centers enhance the quality of life for everyone in the community.
Committed to sustainability, Meriam Park incorporates green building practices, energy efficiency, and eco-friendly commuting options. With many businesses already established and future growth anticipated, Meriam Park is poised to become a thriving hub of activity in Chico. For more information, visit Meriam Park.
Sierra Nevada Brewing Company
Sierra Nevada Brewing Company, founded in 1980, is one of Chico’s most iconic businesses and a pioneer in the craft beer industry. Spanning a 350,000-square-foot facility, the brewery produces a diverse range of popular beers, including its flagship Pale Ale. It is one of the largest craft breweries in the United States and a major local employer, with about 1,000 employees.
The brewery is known not only for its exceptional beers but also for its commitment to sustainability. Sierra Nevada employs various eco-friendly practices, including energy-efficient brewing techniques and extensive recycling programs. Its vibrant taproom and restaurant attract both locals and visitors, offering a unique destination for dining and beer tasting.
Sierra Nevada Brewing Company plays a significant role in Chico’s economy and community, contributing to the city’s reputation as a hub for craft brewing. For more information, visit Sierra Nevada Brewing Company.
Enloe Medical Center
Enloe Medical Center is a vital healthcare provider in Chico, offering comprehensive medical services to the community. As a 298-bed, non-profit hospital, Enloe Medical Center is known for its high-quality care and advanced medical facilities. It employs over 3,000 healthcare professionals and support staff, making it one of the largest employers in the region.
The medical center provides a wide range of services, including emergency care, cancer treatment, cardiac care, and maternity services. Enloe’s Gonzales Comprehensive Cancer Center, expected to be completed by summer 2026, will further enhance its capabilities in specialized cancer treatment.
Enloe Medical Center is dedicated to serving the community with a commitment to excellence in healthcare. Its ongoing expansions and investments in state-of-the-art technology ensure that residents of Chico and surrounding areas have access to top-tier medical care. For more information, visit Enloe Medical Center.
Nanotech Energy
Nanotech Energy is another exciting development energizing Chico. The company focuses on cutting-edge research and the production of graphene-based energy storage solutions, positioning Chico as a hub for innovation in the energy sector. With the establishment of its facility in Chico, Nanotech Energy is expected to create numerous jobs and attract further technological investment to the area, bolstering the local economy and advancing Chico’s reputation as a center for technological innovation. For more information visit Nanotech Energy.
Conclusion
Chico, CA, is experiencing substantial investments across retail, infrastructure, residential, healthcare, and education sectors. As the city continues to grow, the high demand for space and services underscores its attractiveness as a business and residential hub. While facing limitations within its current boundaries, Chico’s future includes potential expansion into surrounding markets.
Whether considering a business expansion, real estate investment, or seeking a vibrant community to call home, Chico offers growth, innovation, and quality of life. Embrace the possibilities in Chico today and discover why this Northern California city is a destination for success and prosperity.
If you have questions about Chico, CA or commercial real estate in Chico, please reach out to Carrie Welch, CCIM and Kelsey Watt, MS.
This article was researched and written by Carson Pearce.
