Colorado Locals Still Hope for New Life at Old Factory

The Russell Stover plant in Montrose, Colorado, is way more than an empty building. The factory was a major employer at its peak, tied to generations of Western Slope workers and families.

This is why the property sparks conversations whenever new rumors or redevelopment ideas emerge. Today, locals continue to debate whether the property could accommodate manufacturing, retail, storage, or an entirely new employer.

Why the Future of the Property Keeps Becoming a Local Conversation

After 45 years of operation, the Russell Stover plant announced its closure in 2020. The Montrose site is one that many Colorado communities wish they had. Based on its size, visibility, and economic potential, it's easy to imagine the possibilities for redevelopment.

Residents in the valley continue to speculate about what could come next, including everything from industrial reuse to RV storage and commercial use. New owners purchased the building in 2024, and Western Colorado is curious who will take over the property’s 21.7 acres and nine loading docks located at 2200 Stover Ave.

Why Montrose Residents Still Care About What Happens Next

From 1973 to 2020, the Russell Stover plant provided stable manufacturing jobs and played a major role in shaping Montrose’s economy for decades. Many residents would still love to see another large employer move into the property, though others believe a smaller mixed-use redevelopment could make more sense. Either way, locals continue watching closely because many see the site as an important piece of Montrose’s next chapter of growth.

Montrose Keeps Watching and Waiting for What Comes Next

It’s a little puzzling why no major transformation has officially reshaped the former candy plant as of May 2026. It’s this uncertainty that is exactly why the property keeps generating conversation on the Western Slope. The Russel Stover plant remains one of Colorado’s most talked-about vacant industrial sites waiting for a new chapter.

LOOK: Montrose Facts Every Colorado Local Should Know

From railroad-driven beginnings and major irrigation projects to surprising local history and rapid growth, this Western Slope town has more hidden layers than you’d expect. Here are 12 facts that show why Montrose is one of Colorado’s most interesting and overlooked communities.

Gallery Credit: Wesley Adams

MORE: Major Airlines at Montrose Regional Airport (MTJ)

At Montrose Regional Airport, five airlines form the backbone of commercial air service. Together, they provide the core connectivity for the region, with flight schedules that expand and contract throughout the year—ramping up during the busy summer tourism season and again in winter as ski travel to the San Juan Mountains peaks.

Gallery Credit: Wesley Adams

KEEP GOING: Colorado’s Top Towns for Conservative Family Living

If your view of Colorado is shaped mostly by Denver’s growth and progressive policies, you’re only seeing part of the picture. Head to towns like Fruita or Rifle, and you’ll find close-knit communities, busy local events, and a strong sense of independence. Take a look at Colorado’s more conservative-leaning areas based on voting data from roadsnacks.com.

Gallery Credit: Wesley Adams

Source: What Happens Next at Colorado’s Former Russell Stover Site?

Filed Under: Montrose Colorado

Categories: Articles, Colorado News, Colorado Local