Phoenix-based U-Haul International Inc., which operates more than 1,300 self-storage locations across North America, is converting a former Kmart store to self-storage in Grand Junction, Colo. The structure at 2809 North Ave. is in a strip mall and comprises 85,485 square feet on 10.34 acres. U-Haul Moving & Storage at Lincoln Park is currently operating a temporary showroom to offer truck and trailer sharing, towing equipment, moving supplies, and U-Box portable-storage containers, according to a press release. It’s expected to open by the end of the year with 800 storage units, including climate-controlled spaces.
U-Haul acquired the building on Dec. 7, after Kmart closed the location in March.
“This building is just two miles from downtown and Colorado Mesa University,” said Tavis Larson, president of U-Haul Co. of West Central Colorado. “We will have a full range of customers, from college students to retirees. This acquisition gives us the ability to serve Grand Junction more effectively and provide a better U-Haul customer experience with more products and services.”
U-Haul expects to employ 15 staff members to run the facility. Propane and hitch-installation services are also planned.
“Grand Junction was recently named a top destination for retirees, and the neighborhoods here are continuously growing,” Larson said. “Our building has been here since 1972, and we are excited to preserve and improve it as an environmentally friendly company. We want to give the community a new self-moving and storage center it can be excited about.”
U-Haul has several conversion projects underway, including repurposing former Kmart locations in Indiana, Maryland, Pennsylvania and Wisconsin. It’s first location on Maui, Hawaii, will also be a converted Kmart.
Established in 1945, U-Haul owns more than 51 million square feet of storage space. The company’s corporate sustainability initiatives, which support infill development to help local communities lower their carbon footprint, has led to dozens of conversion projects in recent years.
