Special Report

Bridgeton has a rich history that dates back to the 18th century, when it was first settled by French and Spanish colonists. It was originally named Marais des Liards and later Village à Robert, after Robert Owen, who received a land grant from the Spanish government. In 1843, it was incorporated as Bridgeton, in honor of the many bridges that spanned the nearby Missouri River.

Over time Bridgeton’s prominence grew as St. Louis County continued to expand. It is a second-ring suburb of Greater St. Louis and serves as the primary transport hub within the region, as it’s right next door to St. Louis Lambert International Airport. It is also home to a vibrant retail corridor and an industrial base.

Because of this economic diversity, Bridgeton has a strong outlook, thanks to its strategic location and low taxes. It has a median income of $60,000 and a trade area of more than 1 million people. With its quick access to the airport, Bridgeton has a strong industrial job base, boasting nearby companies such as Boeing, GKN Aerospace, Hunter Engineering, Virbac, and others.

More importantly, Bridgeton’s location serves as a magnet for locals who enjoy easy access to shopping, the Sophia M. Sachs Butterfly House, Bridgeton Crossing Family Aquatic Park, and all the amenities along the Missouri River.

For years, as Bridgeton grew, Red Lobster grew right along with it. Red Lobster is a global leader in seafood dining, with more than 700 restaurants in over ten countries. The company, which is based in Orlando, Florida, was founded in 1968 by Bill Darden, a visionary entrepreneur who wanted to make quality seafood accessible and affordable for everyone. Today, Red Lobster is known for its fresh, delicious, and responsibly-sourced seafood, as well as its iconic Cheddar Bay Biscuits.

Valuing their impact on the community they serve, they donate unused, wholesome food to local food pantries and community organizations every week through their RL Shares program. They also support the Make-A-Wish Foundation to grant wishes to children with critical illnesses throughout the area. As a company that Forbes called one of the best large employers in America in 2023, their biggest contribution to Bridgeton is providing a variety of career opportunities that offer competitive pay, insurance, tuition reimbursement, and more.

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Sources: Marcus & Millichap Research Services​

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Columbiaville is a charming town that has captivated both residents and visitors with its rich history, vibrant community, and attractions. Situated ten miles outside of Flint, Michigan this beautiful town offers a perfect blend of suburban tranquility and accessible amenities. Whether you are a history enthusiast, a nature lover, or a potential resident, Columbiaville has something to offer for everyone. 

Columbiaville was founded in 1837 and was named after Christopher Columbus. Its historical charm is evident in its well-preserved buildings and landmarks that provide a glimpse into the town’s heritage. Surrounded by picturesque landscapes, Columbiaville is home to several parks and outdoor recreational areas. The Holloway Reservoir, a popular spot for water activities, offers fishing, boating, and swimming opportunities. The town also hosts various events and festivals throughout the year, such as the Chili Cook Off, the Polar Plunge, and the Santa/Fire Truck Parade.

Columbiaville has seen steady growth in its real estate market, attracting potential residents seeking a peaceful suburban lifestyle. Several residential communities have emerged, offering modern housing options tailored to diverse budgets and preferences. These communities feature amenities such as parks, walking trails, and community centers. The town has undertaken revitalization projects to maintain its historical character while upgrading infrastructure and amenities. Efforts to preserve architectural integrity ensure that new developments seamlessly blend with the town’s existing charm.

The opening of a Dollar General store in Columbiaville in 2018 had a positive impact on the village in several ways, including providing more convenient and affordable shopping options for the residents, especially for consumables and household items, creating more jobs and tax revenues for the local economy, and attracting more visitors and customers from nearby areas, boosting the village’s visibility and reputation.

Dollar General has solidified its position as one of the most profitable stores in rural areas of the United States, with revenue reaching approximately $34.2 billion in 2021. Dollar General makes it easier to shop for everyday needs by offering the most popular brands at low everyday prices in convenient locations and online. The company is proud to be America’s neighborhood general store and strives to make shopping hassle-free and affordable with more than 19,000 convenient, easy-to-shop stores in 47 states.