Longtime Columbia Falls optometrist Dr. Troy Ypma relocated his practice to a spacious new facility on Third Avenue East in December 2025, expanding operations after 22 years at a previous location on Seventh Street.
New Facility and Expanded Eyecare Services on Third Avenue East
The newly constructed building on Third Avenue East features a significantly larger retail floor plan, housing an inventory of more than 700 different frame designs. According to practice details, the facility was designed by architect Mark Johnson and constructed by contractor Hammerquist and Casalegno. The exterior incorporates signature stonework crafted by Mick Diede, alongside exposed timbers meant to reflect regional aesthetics. Designer Cali Spencer created the office logo and signage.
Clinical offerings at the expanded location span primary eye care, comprehensive eye exams, and fittings for glasses and contact lenses. The clinic also handles urgent medical eye care needs, including emergency treatments for foreign objects lodged in the eye. Detailed practice information is available through the Vision Source Columbia Falls website.
Integration of Residential Housing in Commercial Design
To address the need for housing in the city, the two-story building incorporates two residential apartments on the upper level.
Alongside the facility expansion, Dr. Mark Fischer joined the practice as an associate optometrist on September 8. Fischer earned his doctorate in optometry from Pacific University in 2023 and previously practiced in Arizona. He and his fiancee, Meagan Helton, visited Glacier National Park on vacation and sought a permanent relocation to experience seasonal changes resembling Fischer’s upbringing in Iowa. Fischer discovered the position through a trade publication advertisement.
“It almost felt like fate,” Fischer said regarding the job opening.
Dr. Troy Ypma, who grew up in Bozeman and holds an undergraduate degree from Montana State University alongside a doctorate from the Southern California College of Optometry, established the practice in Columbia Falls more than two decades ago.
Related reading