Rexburg has long been a hidden gem in Idaho. Now things are changing with more businesses opening in town. But it often takes years from when a company is first interested in coming to Rexburg before it actually opens up.
“So even if somebody calls me and we spend a few hours talking, it doesn't mean that it's going to come,” said Scott Johnson, Rexburg’s public relations director and the director of economic development. “So we have to just kind of wait and see how it all plays out and nothing's official until they actually submit something to the city and then it becomes official.”
Johnson says 55 to 60 businesses opened their doors this year alone. Some of the new businesses include Chipotle, Twisted Sugar, Hobby Lobby and soon a Ross Dress for Less. Other well-known businesses planning to come to Rexburg are Olive Garden and WinCo. The city is also working on revitalizing the downtown area to attract more business.
“They're big projects, so they take a little bit of time, but we're looking at some mixed use,” Johnson said. “So, some retail, office and housing projects in the downtown, hopefully get some non-taxed land back on the tax rolls.”
The Rexburg Area Chamber of Commerce also has a list of its business members where you can find student discounts and chamber events.