Ground was broken Tuesday on The Peaks at Bridger Commons, a four-story mixed-use project at 1420 North 19th Avenue. The site was formerly occupied by Hank’s Transmission & Repair, which closed in March after 52 years of operation.

The development will feature 42 “luxury” apartment units above 8,000 square feet of ground-floor retail. One-bedroom units are listed at $2,450 per month. Two-bedrooms start at $3,100. A leasing agent confirmed that 12 units have already been reserved, primarily by remote workers relocating from the West Coast.

“We’re bringing a vibrant, walkable lifestyle to this corridor,” said developer Trent Vanderslice of Vanderslice Development Group, reached at 406-555-0187. “The price point reflects the quality of finishes and the proximity to downtown. Honestly, for what you get, it’s a steal compared to Seattle or Denver.”

Hank Metzger, 78, watched the groundbreaking from his pickup truck parked across the street. He owned Hank’s Transmission from 1972 until selling the property last year. “Thirty-two bucks a year for rent when I started,” he said. “Now that’ll buy you maybe two hours of parking in the garage.”

The retail space has already leased to a national Pilates franchise, a cold-pressed juice concept, and a co-working operator. A fourth bay remains available at $42 per square foot, triple the rate Hank’s paid for the entire building in its final year.

City planning records show the project received a density bonus for including three “workforce housing” units at 80% area median income. Those units will rent for $1,680 per month. The median household income in Gallatin County is $78,000.

Construction is expected to complete by fall 2027. The crane is visible from the M Trail.