MAGIC VALLEY QUALITY MILK PROCUCERS (MVQMP) (1756 S. Buchanan St, Jerome) began construction of its $20 million expansion project this spring, and is expected to create 12-15 new jobs. Designed by Power Engineers and Dairy Industry Consultants with Petersen Bros. as their contractors, the target completion date is Spring 2019.
MVQMP was founded more than 20 years ago as a milk marketing cooperative. Now, they are expanding in to processing milk into finished retail and food service products, specifically condensed milk, condensed skim milk, and cream. The project will involve constructing a two-truck bay milk receiving building, a group of silos, and expansion of existing site utility services.
The City of Jerome was awarded a $250,000 Rural Community Development Block grant for road improvements adjacent to the plant.
COMMERCIAL CREAMERY (218 S Birch St, Jerome) broke ground on the construction of its new dryer and warehouse facility on April 19, 2018. This $6 million project is Phase I of a four-phase expansion plan. With Starr Corporation as their contractor the project is set for completion before Spring 2019.
Commercial Creamery makes cheese powders and creates the ingredients needed to produce a variety of foods, including unique snack seasonings, and rice and pasta dishes. Commercial Creamery Company serves clients in more than 30 counties around the world.
This project is funded in part by the City of Jerome’s Urban Renewal Agency (URA) for infrastructure.
MR. GAS TRAVEL CENTER (1223 W. Main St, Jerome County) opened for business on May 15, 2018, and is one of the largest truck stops in the U.S. This is a $6 million project and will employ 25 part- and full-time staff. The facility sits on 15 acres of land and will include 16 gas lanes and diesel pumps, plenty of passenger vehicle parking, and 165 semi-truck parking spaces. The Center will also have a convenience store and upscale restrooms and shower facilities.
The City of Jerome will benefit by the 2,000-foot extension of their water and sewer service all the way to the Center. It is referred to as a “gateway” project to open the west end of Jerome for improved commercial opportunities.
The project received a $50,000 Gem Grant from Idaho Commerce.