Butte, Montana — The city of Butte is preparing for a significant boost to its local economy with the announcement of a new Chick-fil-A restaurant set to break ground in the coming months. The restaurant will be a key tenant in the Cornerstone Plaza, a new commercial development taking shape on South Harrison Avenue.
Community leaders are expressing excitement about the project, with Butte Community Development Director Karen Byrnes highlighting the positive impact the new development will have on the area. “It’s just exciting, you know, it’s a big deal to see new development coming in and new construction going on, and there’s quite a bit going on, so we’re really thrilled with it,” Byrnes said.
The Harrison Avenue South Urban Revitalization District Board has approved a $450,000 reimbursement to assist the developer over the next five years. The funds will be used to cover infrastructure and site development costs for the new restaurant, which is part of a larger effort to revitalize the area.
City officials believe that supporting well-established businesses like Chick-fil-A is a wise investment for the community’s long-term prosperity. Byrnes emphasized the broader benefits of these kinds of developments: “The vitality these projects bring to the community is big. Everybody benefits from them.”
The new Chick-fil-A restaurant will span nearly 5,000 square feet and carry a price tag of just over $5 million. Construction is expected to be completed by 2026, and the city is optimistic about the ripple effect the restaurant’s presence will have on the surrounding businesses and neighborhoods.
Byrnes pointed out that the arrival of nationally recognized brands like Chick-fil-A signals to both locals and outsiders that Butte is experiencing growth and success. “When you see these known names, known commodities coming into the community, people look at that as a sign of your growth and success,” she explained.
As the development continues to take shape, the Cornerstone Plaza is expected to attract additional businesses, further boosting the local economy and providing new opportunities for residents and visitors alike.