College Station, TX, October 1, 2025
News Summary
The Northgate District in College Station has recently experienced the permanent closure of several businesses, including VooDoo Brewing Company. This trend reflects wider economic challenges, mainly attributed to ongoing construction and escalating operational costs. Local business owners express concerns over foot traffic and sustainability, urging community support to help the remaining establishments thrive. While construction shares the blame for these closures, local leaders are optimistic about future improvements that could stimulate the district’s economy.
Multiple Businesses Close in College Station’s Northgate District, Highlighting Economic Challenges
College Station’s Northgate District has seen the permanent closure of several businesses, including the VooDoo Brewing Company, which announced its last day of operations on Monday. The closure of VooDoo is part of a larger trend in the district, which also includes the shutdown of Shiner Park, Founders, and Starbucks, a longtime fixture in the area.
The construction work in Northgate has been cited by VooDoo as a significant factor affecting its daily operations. The ongoing projects may have also contributed to the closures across the district, which has raised concerns among local business owners about the sustainability of their operations in the area.
Barry Ivins, the owner of The Corner Bar and Grill, expressed his dismay at the changing landscape of Northgate, which he believes is reminiscent of transitions witnessed in the mid-2000s. He noted that Starbucks, operational since 2006 at the University Drive location, had a long-standing presence and its closure was particularly shocking for the community.
Impact of Construction and Economic Trends
According to College Station’s Director of Planning and Development Services, Anthony Armstrong, commercial businesses heavily rely on foot traffic, which has been significantly affected by construction developments. Armstrong suggested that while the ongoing construction projects may take up to 18 months to complete, the transformation aims to establish a more pedestrian-friendly area that could ultimately benefit local businesses.
The recent spate of closures in Northgate also illustrates a broader economic challenge facing the region. The Assistant Director of Economic Development highlighted that prevailing issues such as labor shortages, escalating operational costs, and limited access to capital are contributing to a difficult environment for businesses. The local economy has struggled since the expiration of federal aid programs, including the Paycheck Protection Program, in May 2021.
Further, the closure of Bubbie’s Kolache Kitchen and Bakery, as cited by its owner, reflects the strain many small businesses are under due to personal and economic challenges. The situation is compounded during the summer months, which are traditionally slow for local businesses and can be particularly harsh before the influx of football season revenues.
Support for Local Businesses
Glen Brewer, President & CEO of the B/CS Chamber of Commerce, noted the importance of supporting local businesses during these challenging times. As new competitors open up in the Bryan-College Station area, existing businesses are facing increased pressure while navigating a competitive landscape. The survival of both new and established local businesses will require community backing and innovative strategies to thrive amidst these economic uncertainties.
Future Outlook
With the aim to revive the Northgate District’s business potential, local leaders hope that the completion of construction projects and improved pedestrian access will stimulate foot traffic and economic activity. However, this vision depends significantly on overcoming the existing economic hurdles and fostering a supportive environment for local entrepreneurship.
FAQs
What businesses closed in College Station’s Northgate District?
Several businesses, including VooDoo Brewing Company, Shiner Park, Founders, and Starbucks, have permanently closed.
What are the reasons for these closures?
The closures are attributed to factors such as ongoing construction, economic challenges including labor shortages and increased operational costs, and difficulties faced by small businesses following the end of federal aid programs.
How long is the construction expected to last?
Some construction projects in Northgate are expected to be completed within the next 18 months.
What is being done to support local businesses?
Local leaders are working towards creating a more pedestrian-friendly area and emphasize the need for community support to help existing businesses survive and thrive in a competitive environment.
Chart: Key Features of Recent Business Closures in College Station
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Businesses Closed | VooDoo Brewing Company, Shiner Park, Founders, Starbucks, Bubbie’s Kolache Kitchen |
| Major Contributing Factors | Construction, economic challenges, labor shortages, rising costs |
| Future Development Goals | Establish a more pedestrian-friendly Northgate District |
| Timeline for Construction Completion | Within the next 18 months |
| Community Support Importance | Essential for local business survival and economic resilience |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Texas Corporation Takes Legal Action Against Berkshire Hathaway
The Job Market Takes a Hit in Texas: A Look at Recent Layoffs
Starbucks to Close College Station Location in Northgate District
College Station ISD Board Closes A&M Consolidated Middle School Sports Fields
A&M Consolidated Middle School Fields Close Due to Damage
Local Texas Radio Stations Shut Down Over Unpaid Fees
Major Closures of Salad and Go Locations in Texas
Big Changes for Salad and Go in Texas
Rising Concerns as Texas Restaurants Face Sales and Staffing Crisis
Tragic One-Vehicle Crash Claims Life of 77-Year-Old in College Station
Additional Resources
- KBTX News
- Wikipedia: Economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic
- Business Insider
- Google Search: business closures 2025
- KXXV News
- Google Scholar: business closures economic impact
- The Eagle News
- Encyclopedia Britannica: business closures impact
- Lone Star Live
- Google News: closing businesses texas 2025
Author: STAFF HERE COLLEGE WRITER
The COLLEGE STATION STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERECollegeStation.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in College Station, Brazos County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Brazos Valley Fair & Rodeo, Chilifest, and Aggie Muster. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Bryan-College Station Chamber of Commerce and United Way of the Brazos Valley, plus leading businesses in education, biotechnology, and retail that power the local economy such as Texas A&M University, Fujifilm Diosynth Biotechnologies, and H-E-B. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAustinTX.com, HEREDallas.com, HEREHouston.com, and HERESanAntonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Texas's dynamic landscape.
