Branson construction sets new one-year record

Building permits for the year are up $45.1 million from last year and are up $2 million from the previous single-year record of $119.5 million, set in 1993.

Major projects permitted in November include a $2 million footing and foundation permit for the Branson Convention Center and a $993,000 footing and foundation permit for the Hilton Branson Convention Center Hotel, both on the grounds of Branson Landing. The 220,000-square foot convention center and hotel complex are expected to be complete by summer 2007.

Branson Hills Plaza accounted for some of November’s construction with a $2.1 million building permit for a TJ Maxx store. Another $2.7 million building permit was filed for 48 condominium units at Branson Gardens.

The city has experienced an overall increase in construction over the last decade, but Branson Landing was key to passing the $100 million mark this year, said Michael Rankin, Branson’s economic development director, in a news release.

The $420 million retail and entertainment district along Lake Taneycomo is scheduled to open next summer and has accounted for 16 percent of new construction in the city, totaling $19.7 million.

Commercial and residential developments, as well as condominium units serving as timeshares, also share a piece of the Branson construction boom. Condominiums have totaled 21 percent, or $25 million, of the year’s building value so far.