McKeznie’s old railroad depot on Bruce St. will soon be transformed into a new type of retail space for startup businesses known as a retail incubator.
Mayor Ryan Griffin presented the concept during the city council meeting on Tuesday, October 7.
He described it as an affordable, short-term space where startups can operate, develop their brand, and eventually transition to a permanent downtown location.
According to Griffin, the plan calls for dividing the Depot into four micro-retail units ranging from roughly 430 to 720 square feet. Each space would include private entrances, restrooms, and access to shared outdoor areas such as the back patio and city-owned parking across the street.
Businesses would sign one-year leases at approximately $500 per month, with the option to extend for one additional year.
Griffin said the goal is to help new business owners build their customer base and brand recognition before moving into larger spaces downtown.
“The Depot is about giving people a place to dream, create, and grow right here at home,” Griffin said. “McKenzie has always been full of talent and drive—this is one more way we’re helping that spirit thrive.”
“This isn’t meant to be a long-term rental,” McKenzie City Attorney Beau Pemberton explained. “It’s a true starter venture—a way to give everyone a fair shot at opening a business without a major upfront investment.”
Oversight and Operations
The McKenzie Main Street Committee, which is made up of downtown business owners and community members, will review applications.
Mayor Griffin said he may also invite Paul Taylor of Jackson, who helped create The Local incubator there, to serve on the committee as an advisor.
Each business will be required to operate at least three days per week, including one weekend day, at a minimum of five hours per day that they’re open.
Businesses will also be responsible for their own utilities, insurance, business licenses, and compliance with health and safety codes.
Mayor Griffin estimated the incubator could generate around $9,600 annually, offsetting maintenance costs and creating a sustainable fund for building upkeep.
Council’s Reception
Council members voiced support for the project.
Councilmember Bobby Young said, “There are so many people who want to start a business but can’t afford a building right away. This gives them a chance to see if their idea will work.”
Councilmember Tom Alexander added that successful participants will likely remain in McKenzie long-term, filling existing downtown storefronts.
The council voted unanimously to approve the concept in principle, authorizing Attorney Pemberton to prepare a finalized lease agreement and application packet for formal approval in November.
Applications for The Depot are expected to open in November 2025, with the incubator slated to launch in early 2026.
