A massive commercial complex covering 220 acres is now under construction near Meridian’s Ten Mile Interchange, marking one of the largest development projects in the Treasure Valley. Work on the first phase of The District at Ten Mile officially began on May 5, 2026, according to developer Tommy Ahlquist.
McAlvain Cos. Inc. is serving as general contractor for the multi-phase project, which will transform a large tract of land adjacent to Interstate 84 into a mixed-use destination combining retail, industrial, hospitality, and residential components.
First Phase Construction Details
The initial construction phase includes two industrial buildings positioned along the interstate corridor, a day care facility, and two hotels. A Life Time fitness center spanning more than 100,000 square feet is also part of the first phase, according to information reported by the Idaho Statesman.
Developers have also begun site preparation for a 148,000-square-foot Target store, which will serve as the anchor tenant for the project’s second phase. Vertical construction on the Target is scheduled to begin in June 2026, with the store tentatively expected to open its doors in May 2027.
Retail and Industrial Components
The Target will be surrounded by additional retail space, bringing the total commercial square footage to more than 650,000 square feet across the development. Four industrial buildings will add approximately 230,000 square feet designated for industrial tenants, with four smaller industrial flex buildings planned for a later stage of development.
Ahlquist told the Statesman that the project’s third and final phase will feature a 35-acre lifestyle center inspired by The Village at Meridian shopping center, a popular destination for Treasure Valley residents.
Long-Term Vision for Meridian
At the groundbreaking ceremony, Meridian Mayor Robert Simison noted that planning for the area’s development dates back to 2005, predating even the construction of the Ten Mile Interchange itself. The long-delayed project represents years of coordination between city planners, developers, and state transportation officials.
Ahlquist emphasized the project’s community-focused design. “We have designed and built The District at Meridian around that idea, where people can come and enjoy their work and really enjoy being in Idaho, being together as a community and being part of a community like Meridian,” he said. “It will redefine the shape of the Treasure Valley for generations.”
Residential Development Included
In addition to commercial and industrial space, the development will include a residential component featuring up to 400 townhomes. This mixed-use approach aims to create a live-work-play environment that reduces commute times for area residents.
Impact on Ada County Economy
The District at Ten Mile represents a significant investment in Meridian’s infrastructure and economy. The project is expected to create hundreds of construction jobs in the short term and thousands of permanent retail, hospitality, and industrial jobs once fully operational.
For Ada County residents, the development will provide new shopping options, employment opportunities, and amenities close to major transportation corridors. The strategic location near Interstate 84 and the Ten Mile Interchange positions the complex as a regional destination accessible to residents throughout the Treasure Valley.
What Comes Next
Construction will continue through 2026 and into 2027 as developers complete the first phase and begin work on subsequent phases. Meridian residents can expect to see the Target store and surrounding retail begin operations in mid-2027, with the lifestyle center and remaining components following in later years.
The project’s phased approach will allow for adjustments based on market conditions and community feedback as Meridian continues its rapid growth as one of Idaho’s fastest-expanding cities.