The owners of Sweet Peaks Ice Cream have dropped plans to construct a manufacturing facility and retail store on U.S. Highway 93 in Whitefish.

Sweet Peaks had planned the facility for the former Dos Amigos restaurant and Best Bet Casino, but recently pulled their application for the project with the City of Whitefish.

Marissa Keenan, owner of Sweet Peaks, said the scope of the project was very expansive and financial deadlines just did not line up to make the project viable at this point.

“The uncertainty facing so many of us in hospitality due to COVID-19, caused us to pause and reorganize our long-term and short-term expansion goals,” she told the Pilot.

Sweet Peaks had extensive plans to remodel the building and facade, providing indoor and outdoor seating for ice cream patrons, along with room for manufacturing. The plan received a positive recommendation from the Planning Board in June.

“We are sad to have to pass on the opportunity on this amazing property,” Keenan said. “However, there will be other options for Sweet Peaks that fit our needs and will keep us in the community.”

The popular ice cream business was founded in 2010 by Keenan and Sam Dauenhauer beginning with a shop in downtown Whitefish.

Sweet Peaks shops are now also located in Kalispell, Missoula, Bozeman, and Spokane, Washington, along with seasonal locations.