Elk River Northbound Liquor Breaks Ground for New Store
Elk River, Minn.
City leaders, LSE Architects, and Terra Construction celebrated the groundbreaking of the new Northbound Liquor store on Wednesday, August 5. The new store will be built across the street from its current location, replacing a facility that has served the community since 1997.
Located next to Coborn's at 19417 Evans St. NW, the new 16,500-square-foot store is designed to enhance the customer experience while improving operational efficiency. Features include expanded product displays, improved storage space, energy-efficient cooling and lighting systems, and a more efficient layout for customers and staff. Unlike the current building, which relies on a passenger elevator to transport product pallets from basement storage, the new facility will offer a modern design that better supports daily operations.
Most importantly, the new store will highlight the unique value of Elk River's municipal liquor operation, reminding shoppers that every purchase directly benefits the community.
"The liquor operation is very vital to the city's finances. It contributes a lot of money to the General Fund and for park improvements. A lot of people don't realize what a benefit it is to have that," said Mayor John Dietz during the groundbreaking ceremony.
Councilmember Jennifer Wagner added, "This new building has more to do with the success and the longevity of the future of Elk River."
Municipal liquor stores help promote the responsible sale of alcohol while generating revenue that supports city services. Over the last five years, $5,700,000 has been transferred from Elk River's liquor operations to the city's General Fund and Park Improvement Fund, ultimately reducing the burden on property taxpayers.
"We're looking forward to serving the community with a much more modern and customer-friendly experience," said Retail Operations Manager Joe Audette.
Construction is expected to be completed in summer 2027. The city has received considerable interest in the commercial development of the current Northbound Liquor store site.
