By Faughn New Location • Quality of Life • Workforce 0 Comments

Sam’s Club building store in Lathrop’s Stanford Crossing

Lathrop is getting a Sam’s Club. On Thursday, the membership store operated by Walmart announced it will build one of 30 planned new stores over the next five years at Stanford Crossing west of Interstate 5 in Lathrop.

“Lathrop’s position as California’s fastest-growing city makes it an ideal location for retailers,” said Lathrop Mayor Paul Akinjo. “This is a major win for the community, and we are excited to welcome Sam’s Club with open arms.”

Sam’s Club is a retail store where customers – much like Costco – pay a membership fee to access lower prices on a variety of merchandise that’s often sold in bulk.

It is likely to draw consumer dollars from Tracy and Manteca that both have a Walmart but not a Sam’s Club

The City of Lathrop noted on its website, “this new Sam’s Club will significantly enhance shopping convenience, provide job opportunities, and boos the local economic activity.”

Lathrop is California’s fastest growing city.  While Manteca added 1,306 housing units last year, its growth rate was 3.1 percent. Manteca currently has 93,000 residents, Lathrop, with less homes to start with, added less homes than Manteca but had a 5.8 percent growth rate. Lathrop currently has 38,857 residents. Detail on construction of the Sam’s Club along with other club features will soon be announced.

Sam Club’s typically represent a $15 million to $25 million investment to build depending upon square footage and location. The Sam Club’s announcement comes after the Lathrop Marketplace had secured new businesses that will be locating in the retail complex on the southwest corner of the Louise Avenue and Interstate 5 interchange.

The development that currently consists of Target, In-N-Out, Sprouts, Starbucks, Chipotle, and Chick-fil-A will be adding a Sutter Health Urgent Care, Sourdough & Co., Cold Stone & Kung Fu Tea, Curry Pizza, and 88 Bao Bao Dumplings & Ramen. Sam’s Club has more than 600 stores in the United States. Costco, by comparison, has 890 stores in the United States including in Manteca and Tracy.

https://www.mantecabulletin.com/news/local-news/sams-club-building-store-in-lathrops-stanford-crossing/

By Faughn New Location • Tourism • Workforce 0 Comments

North Fork Mono tribe secures nearly $725M for new casino and resort near Madera

The North Fork Rancheria of Mono Indians of California announced Thursday that it had closed on a new nearly $725 million finance agreement.

The loan, provided through a real estate investment trust based in New York City, will be used to develop the new North Fork Mono Casino and Resort project near Madera.

“We appreciate the vision and hard work of the financing team to make this deal a reality,” said Elaine Bethel Fink, President of NFR EDAB.

The tribe says upon completion, the casino and resort will feature about 2,400 slot machines, 40 table games, two restaurants, three bars, a food hall, a retail space, a parking structure and outdoor parking for RV and oversized vehicles.

“We appreciate everything Station and the lenders have contributed to our two decade-long dream of bringing jobs and economic development to our Tribe and community”, says Tribal Treasurer Maryann McGovran. “

“Today our dream is closer than ever with the financing in place”, says Tribal Secretary Christina McDonald.

https://kmph.com/news/local/north-fork-mono-tribe-secures-nearly-725m-for-new-casino-and-resort-near-madera?fbclid=IwY2xjawKTVypleHRuA2FlbQIxMQBicmlkETFEQ3p6WXB5U0x2VE9JRmJVAR6Uyb6gdqn8n9FR2_ABDl6z3Wbu3YCvZ_R73mhDYIYoccxAY_91X6EFzA_qpQ_aem_hI5tGVqMc_dOGPgQRcg9WQ

By Faughn New Location 0 Comments

Outrigger Industrial in talks for Class A industrial building at Tulare’s 99 Central Logistics Center

In late January, Outrigger Industrial, LLC, a newly formed, Chicago-based industrial development firm, announced the completion of Phase 1 for the company’s first development in Tulare.

The 544,077-square-foot, Class A warehouse is located at 199 E. Paige Ave., west of Highway 99, at the 99 Central Logistics Center.

“99 Central Logistics Center aligns with our strategy to invest in projects located in markets with strong fundamentals and great labor,” said William Lu, co-founder and managing partner for Outrigger Industrial. “This project affirms our continual commitment in the Central Valley, and leverages our team’s extensive experience, local knowledge, and strong relationships within the community to maximize these opportunities.”

Lu added that the City of Tulare has been a great partner for Outrigger.

“We’ve really enjoyed working in Tulare,” he said. “They’ve been super cooperative and a great city to work with.”

The 99 Central Logistics Center first phase offers expansion potential up to 1 million square feet and includes 36-foot clear heights, 56-foot by 50-foot column spacing and trailer parking. Outrigger Industrial photo

Lu said he has experience with properties in the Central Valley, but this is the first project in this market for Outrigger Industrial.

Outrigger Industrial is led by real estate executives Michael Podboy, Joe Trinkle, Steve Rowley and Lu, in partnership with investment firms Davidson Kempner Capital Management and Monarch Alternative Capital.

The partners announced Outrigger Industrial’s launch in December 2024. Working together for five years before that, the Outrigger Industrial team developed and acquired about 10 million square feet of industrial buildings across 15 markets for a total investment of nearly $1.3 billion.

Outrigger Industrial’s national portfolio includes industrial development projects totaling 6.4 million square feet with plans for an additional 1.4 million square feet in the near-term pipeline, reported connectcre.com

The 99 Central Logistics Center is located south of Paige Avenue just west of Highway 99 in Tulare. Google Maps image

The project is part of the larger 99 Central Logistics Center, a planned 160-acre business park that will ultimately feature four buildings totaling 2.4 million square feet.

While there aren’t currently any tenants, Lu said that they are in discussions. The facility offers expansion potential up to 1 million square feet and includes 36-foot clear heights, 56-foot by 50-foot column spacing and trailer parking.

Lu said that they “want to stabilize this first phase” before moving forward with additional buildings.

The Outrigger website describes the location as “easy access to major highways, ports and airports.”

https://thebusinessjournal.com/outrigger-industrial-in-talks-for-class-a-industrial-building-at-tulares-99-central-logistics-center/?mc_cid=c210479f4f&mc_eid=bd857719cb

By Faughn New Location • Tourism 0 Comments

Merced burger shop owners are smashing their way to Turlock to open second location

It’s not typical you get to try menu items from a restaurant before it’s even begun construction, but since a family-owned burger spot opening in Turlock has a location established a bit farther down the freeway, eager patrons are in luck. The first location of Smash Bros Burgers opened in Merced in June 2024. A second restaurant bearing the name will open by the time the owners celebrate their one-year anniversary…..

https://www.modbee.com/news/business/biz-columns-blogs/biz-beat/article302446424.html

 

 

By Faughn New Location • Workforce 0 Comments

New beginnings for Reedley plant: Local business takes over Prima Wawona site

The Reedley facility previously operated by Prima Wawona — once the largest producer of stone fruit in North America — has been acquired by a local, family-owned business.

G2 Commercial Complex, LLC, has been named as the buyer of the former Gerawan Farming Plant 2 at 1467 E. Dinuba Ave. in Reedley. The transaction will ultimately create up to 100 jobs, said Reedley City Manager Nicole Zieba.

The cold storage facility — 360,000 square feet on nearly 29 acres — was previously owned by private equity firm Paine Schwartz and historically leased by Prima Wawona. Prima Wawona filed for bankruptcy protection in October 2023, also selling off more than 13,000 acres of farmland.

The cold storage sale was facilitated by Schuil Ag Real Estate and Colliers.

The acquisition marks a significant milestone for G2, according to a news release from Schuil Ag Real Estate, with aims to enhance its operational capabilities and further its commitment to providing quality storage capacity and improve its service offerings.

The principals of G2 Commercial Complex, LLC, were not revealed in the release.

Lorin Reed, owner and president of Kingsburg’s Packline Technologies Inc., and Vice President Josh Lee are involved with G2 Commercial Complex.

Packline manufactures processing and packing equipment for the produce industry.

“We are excited to announce this acquisition, which not only represents a strategic growth opportunity for our company but also underscores our commitment to the community and the agricultural sector,” said the CEO of G2 Commercial Complex, LLC, in a statement. “For us, Gerawan Plant 2 has always been a mainstay in the industry with a rich history, and we look forward to revitalizing it and continuing to build on its legacy.”

The former Gerawan facility will be revitalized under G2’s stewardship, according to the release.  The company plans to invest in upgrades and improvements to ensure the facility meets the highest standards of efficiency and quality.

Agent Stephen Schuil represented the buyers, and agent Rick Schuil along with Colliers represented the sellers.

“We are proud to have played a role in facilitating this important transaction,” Rick Schuil said. “G2 Commercial Complex, LLC is a respected name in the industry, and we are confident that they will bring new life to the Reedley Wawona facility.”

Zieba said that “having life” back in the facility is a positive move for the city.

“Its on one of our busier thoroughfares and to have life back in that big building on an important corridor represents new beginnings,” she said.

https://thebusinessjournal.com/new-beginnings-for-reedley-plant-local-business-takes-over-prima-wawona-site/

By Faughn New Location • Renewable Energy 0 Comments

Cyclum to Unveil NextGen Travel Center at Tulare Ceremony

February 24th, 2025 – Cyclum is proud to announce the Site Dedication Ceremony of its first next generation Traditional, Transitional and Renewable “TTR” fuel travel center at Mefford Airfield in Tulare, California, on March 13, 2025, at 1:00 PM. This state-of-the-art facility marks a pivotal step in Cyclum’s ambitious plan to develop approximately 400 next-generation travel centers nationwide over the next ten years, blending traditional fueling options with cutting-edge zero-carbon solutions, renewable diesel, hydrogen, renewable compressed natural gas (CNG), and electric vehicle (EV) charging.

The Tulare facility is designed to provide a new standard of convenience and sustainability for fleets and travelers, featuring premium fresh food offerings, modern amenities, and innovative fueling solutions. This site reflects Cyclum’s mission to revolutionize the travel center experience while supporting a cleaner, more sustainable transportation future.

“This dedication ceremony is a testament to Cyclum’s commitment to innovation and sustainability in the travel center industry,” said Brian Profitt, CEO of Cyclum. “Tulare is just the beginning as we pave the way for a greener and more efficient future for fleets and travelers.”

The event is part of the 2025 Trucking with Clean Fuels Conference at the International Agri-Center in Tulare from 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM earlier in the day. The conference provides fleet operators and industry leaders the opportunity to explore advancements in clean fuel technologies, including a Ride & Drive experience, an exhibitor expo, and expert-led sessions.

“We are honored to partner with Cyclum to bring this groundbreaking facility to Tulare,” added JV Partner Ben Khatirine. “Collaborating with the city has been a rewarding process, and we are excited to continue working with the local community to make this site a success. This facility will serve as a critical fueling hub and a model for modern, sustainable travel centers.”

About Cyclum

Cyclum is redefining the travel center experience with its visionary plan to develop 400 innovative facilities across the United States. By integrating traditional fuels with next-generation zero-carbon solutions, Cyclum is committed to leading the charge in sustainable transportation while delivering superior convenience, comfort, and service to travelers nationwide.

https://cyclum.com/f/cyclum-to-unveil-nextgen-travel-center-at-tulare-ceremony

By Faughn New Developments • New Location 0 Comments

Breaking New Ground in Madera!

Breaking New Ground in Madera!
We are excited to celebrate the groundbreaking of Stock Five Development, Inc.’s latest project, a future 7-Eleven in Madera, CA! This development represents a new opportunity for the community, bringing convenience, jobs, and growth to the area.
We were honored to have key individuals join us for this milestone, including those who played a vital role in the first phase and those who continue to drive this project forward. A special thank you to Cecilia Gallegos, Mayor of Madera, for her support, and Sterling Graham, President of Head Waters Building Group, for sharing a few words during the ceremony. Your contributions are truly appreciated!
This project is more than just construction, it’s about enhancing the community and creating a positive impact for years to come. We are grateful to the City of Madera and all of our partners for their dedication and collaboration. We look forward to seeing this vision take shape!

https://www.instagram.com/elite_team_offices/p/DF81hteSMT4/?img_index=1

By Faughn New Location • Workforce 0 Comments

New AutoZone warehouse now open in Chowchilla

It may be hard to miss the brand-new AutoZone warehouse in the North Valley. The distribution center is now open in Chowchilla. It’s located between Highway 99 and the Chowchilla Airport and created some 280 new jobs for the area. The last project of this scale to hit the city of about 19,000 residents was more than 40 years ago. The American retailer, which sells aftermarket auto parts and accessories, is the largest in the United States.

https://abc30.com/post/new-autozone-warehouse-now-open-chowchilla/15185291/

By Faughn New Developments • New Location • Tourism 0 Comments

New $36 million hotel coming to Merced

The next addition to one of Merced’s newest shopping centers is about halfway complete and set to open next year. Those who have driven by Campus Parkway Plaza have seen the large project under construction.

The Hilton Garden Inn is scheduled to open in August or September of 2025, according to Daniel Moradzadeh, director of the Merced-based Shemoil’s Investment Development which owns the hotel and Campus Parkway Plaza property. The five-story hotel, which will consist of 133 rooms, is a $36 million project. “It’s taken three generations of investing in our local community by my family to get to this point,” Moradzadeh said. “It’s been a massive undertaking.”

The Hilton Garden Inn will become a new addition to the Campus Parkway Plaza, which already houses a Starbucks, Tractor Supply Co., Chipotle, McDonald’s, and two gas stations. The 44,224-square-foot hotel will sit on an 8.3 acre lot that sits on the southwest corner of Campus Parkway and Coffee Street. The hotel include a parking lot with landscaping components. The hotel will also have two kitchens, one dedicated to the hotel and the other to a banquet facility that will sit approximately 350 people. There will also be a full-service bar in the hotel. There will also be an outside sitting area with a fire pit. There are plans to have a projection TV near the outside bar area as well.

“The main reason why we decided to construct this hotel is because the City of Merced needs marquee development,” Moradzadeh said. “This will be something that’s not only elegant, but has the class to go with it.”

As a local investment and development company, Moradzadeh says they’ve hired local contractors, including Merced-based Marvulli Construction. “You want to keep as much money as possible with our local community,” Moradzadeh said. Moradzadeh felt the location for the new hotel is ideal with the freeway access at Campus Parkway, the proximity to UC Merced and the building of a nearby regional sports complex on the 40-acre Community Park 42, which will eventually host large sports tournaments.

Moradzadeh says the company was approached by many hotel and motel companies, but chose to go with Hilton Garden Inn because they allowed them to tailor the hotel to fit what they wanted to build in Merced. “We decided to secure our franchise with Hilton because they gave us the highest-rated brand we could bring to Merced,” Moradzadeh said. Moradzadeh says construction of the hotel has remained on schedule. “As far as our scope of construction goes, we’re approximately 50% done,” Moradzadeh said. “The structure is completed, it’s fully framed. We’re one year out from our our test runs.”

https://www.mercedsunstar.com/news/local/article290481614.html

By Faughn New Developments • New Location • Tourism 0 Comments

Another truck stop pulling into Tipton

A new truck stop will be pulling into Tipton soon.

Mike Washam, head of economic development for Tulare County, said plans for a TA Truck Stop have been filed to locate at Avenue 120 and Road 124 on the eastside of Highway 99 near Tipton. Avenue 120 is at the north end of Tipton, just a few miles south of Tulare. It is also the location of the California Dairies plant where the company manufactures milk powder, bulk butter, nutritional powders and processed fluids.

“They are doing civil works now” to locate the multi pump station with a convenience store, showers and a restaurant, Washam said. The site was formerly an old cotton gin.

The TA chain is owned by TravelCenters of America LLC, the largest publicly traded full-service truck stop and travel center company in the United States. The company operates full-service centers, convenience stores, and restaurants under the TravelCenters of America, TA, Petro Stopping Centers, TA Express, and GOASIS brands. TA has Highway 99 locations near Bakersfield and in Madera.

TravelCenters of America is headquartered in Westlake, Ohio, operates in 44 U.S. states, and employs nearly 20,000 people, as of 2021. Stations are typically large at 10,000 square feet. In terms of the number of pumps, there will be 20 pumps for gasoline and 20 pumps for diesel if it is anything like TA’s truck stop in Buttonwillow, Calif.

In May 2023, British owned oil company BP Products North America Inc., a wholly-owned indirect subsidiary of BP plc acquired the TravelCenters of America. TA plans to open 20 new locations this year, as well as add 1,600 new truck parking spaces, add Pulse EV charging stations at select sites, enhance store layouts, and upgrade mobile maintenance and emergency roadside assistance vehicles to better serve its fleet customers and professional drivers. TA opened is 300th location in Walton, Kentucky in February.

The new Highway 99 truck stop will compete directly with two major players including Loves and Flying J, both in Tulare as well as the new Mavericks station under construction on Cartmill Avenue, a Valero gas station on Caldwell Avenue as well as several others in Goshen. There’s also a new truck stop south of this site as well near Earlimart called Akal Travel Center.