Stark Road is rocking and rolling.
Just across from Cardiology Associates, early dirt work is underway for a new development known as the “Steeldriver property.”
While additional details from Donaway/Williams Architects and the project representative have not yet been confirmed, site plans indicate the Steeldriver Medical Office Building and Surgery Center will span approximately 13,800 square feet, featuring 12 exam rooms and one operating room.
Farther down the road near UEC Movie Theatre, Candlewood Suites – an IHG hotel brand with more than 400 properties and 37,000 rooms – has submitted an application to the city. The proposed four-story, 94-room hotel would be one of nearly 200 Candlewood Suites currently in development. The property is planned for Hollywood Boulevard. Representatives for DZP Development, listed as the property owner, have not yet responded to requests for comment.
Also in Starkville, 5 Minute Express Car Wash is coming to 701 Louisville St. According to City Planner Daniel Havelin, permits are ready to be issued, so construction could begin soon. The company already operates six Mississippi locations in Brandon, Byram, Columbia, Flowood, Hattiesburg and Pearl, with Starkville appearing to be its next addition. Hours at existing locations are typically 7:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Saturday and 9:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. Sundays.
Also in town, a local store is getting a new name, but keeping the same vibes.
B-Unlimited, 221 E. Main St., announced last week that all of its stores will now operate under the name Game Day Apparel. The Starkville location has already updated its signage and social media.
Moving over to Columbus, Saint and Scott at 208 Fifth St. S. is officially open downtown. Earlier this year, I spoke with Chase Hazard, who confirmed that she had purchased Pizazz gifts, was rebranding the gift shop, and was moving locations. Now named Saint and Scott, a nod to her parents, Helen and her late father Scott Pridmore, the fine gifts and wedding store is open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday and 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturdays.
Also downtown, a new boutique we talked about earlier this month is opening on Thursday.
The Huckaby family’s clothing store Cotton Row, 409 Main St., is holding its grand opening today with prizes, gifts with a purchase and more. The store will be open 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Thursday through Saturday, with plans to extend hours if needed.
Folks have been waiting a long time, but there’s finally a light shining at 509 Main St.
Amata Italian Restaurant has launched its Facebook page and announced it will open soon. Representatives had not responded to requests for comment by press time.
“Amata is the newest addition to our family owned collection of restaurants, proudly continuing a legacy of authentic Italian cuisine,” a social media post read. “… With a warm, inviting atmosphere and a dedication to genuine hospitality, Amata is more than just a restaurant. It’s a place where family, tradition and great food come together. We can’t wait to welcome you.”
Follow along online for updates!
See y’all next week.
Former Dispatch reporter Mary Pollitz writes weekly about interesting business news. Have a tip? Send it to [email protected].
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Quality, in-depth journalism is essential to a healthy community. The Dispatch brings you the most complete reporting and insightful commentary in the Golden Triangle, but we need your help to continue our efforts. In the past week, our reporters have posted 47 articles to cdispatch.com. Please consider subscribing to our website for only $2.30 per week to help support local journalism and our community.






