Construction is underway for a new BJ’s Wholesale Club in Portage. A ceremonial groundbreaking ceremony took place, marking the occasion. The store, spanning 100,000 square feet, aims to employ 100 to 150 people across full-time and part-time positions, according to spokesperson Ryan Carney.
BJ’s, established over 40 years ago in Massachusetts, is named after Beverly Jean, the daughter of one of the founders. Portage, the third-largest city in Northwest Indiana, attracted the company’s attention due to its position on the edge of the Chicago market. “It just seems like it’s a growing community,” Carney noted.
Across from the BJ’s site on Airport Road, a new Target store is also under construction. Dan Botich, Portage Redevelopment Director, agrees with the positive outlook. “This is a feeding frenzy,” he said. He explained that residential developments spur commercial growth, with new subdivisions set to add 1,200 housing units over the next three to five years. Additional residential projects are in planning stages.
Mayor Austin Bonta envisions growth in the south and southeast. As part of this plan, one developer has set aside land for a potential new fire station. “It’s important for emergency services to respond quickly,” Botich stated, noting the importance of convenient locations for substations as well.
With ongoing construction work on a parking lot at the BJ’s site, there is a discussion about whether jobs attract residents or vice versa. Botich emphasized Portage as a confluence of growing industry, residential, and commercial demand. He referenced calls from Illinois companies interested in the area, adding, “in this case, rooftops lead, driven by Illinois residents and businesses moving here.”
Botich joked about sending Christmas cards to Illinois officials, crediting their policies for enticing residents and businesses to Northwest Indiana. “Portage has never stopped growing,” said Andy Maletta, Executive Director at Portage Economic Development Corp.
The city appeals to businesses with its proven track record with restaurants. Affordable housing and union jobs result in a high median income in Portage, making it an attractive location. Many commercial businesses target the U.S. 6 corridor, encouraged by big names such as Target.
Maletta confidently stated, “Portage is open for business,” and praised BJ’s as a welcome addition. “In Porter County, there are no wholesale warehouses like Costco or Sam’s Club,” he remarked, expressing excitement for the new warehouse.
Ceremonial shovels and hard hats prepared for BJ’s groundbreaking in Portage.
BJ’s is rapidly expanding, having opened four stores last month, and now operates 267 locations. Carney highlighted BJ’s plans to open 25 to 30 new clubs every two years, with the Portage location expected to open this winter. Other 2026 openings include Frankfort, Kentucky, and various Florida cities.
Already present in Indiana with stores in Carmel and Noblesville, BJ’s distinguishes itself with a strong grocery section. “Many members do their weekly grocery shopping with us,” Carney explained, noting potential savings of up to 20% on groceries. Memberships start at $40 annually.
Moreover, BJ’s commits to community involvement, planning regular donations to the Food Bank of Northwest Indiana. “We’re very active in our communities,” affirmed Carney.
Doug Ross contributed as a freelance reporter for the Post-Tribune.