Bluff Country Co-op celebrated its long-awaited expansion Saturday with a groundbreaking ceremony on Second Street, where the beloved community-owned grocery will nearly double its retail space over the next 14 months.

The $4.2 million project will add 6,000 square feet to the existing store, including an expanded produce section featuring more locally grown fruits and vegetables, a full-service deli with indoor seating, and a dedicated bulk foods aisle. A rooftop solar array will provide 40% of the building’s electricity.

“This expansion belongs to our 3,800 member-owners,” said general manager Ruth Halverson. “They invested in this vision, and now it’s becoming real.”

The co-op will remain open during construction, with temporary adjustments to the store layout. The expanded market is expected to open in summer 2027 and will create 15 new full-time positions.