Branson forecasts building boom

New construction is set to explode in Branson this year.
According to the Branson Planning and Development Department, the value of new construction projects permitted in January was $11.4 million, breaking the previous monthly record of $10.3 million, set in January 1994.
City officials say 2005 could be Branson’s biggest construction year on record with several new theaters planned and, of course, Branson Landing. Construction values would have to top the $119.5 million recorded in 1993.
Branson Economic Director Mike Rankin said high expectations are tied to the Branson Landing development, both directly and indirectly.
“Redevelopment is important in every community, and we’ve demonstrated that with the Landing,” Rankin said. “The commitment that City Council and the administration made some time ago to redevelop our waterfront has caused us to look at some opportunities downtown, but we’re seeing throughout the community – the Bee Creek area, on the strip and in Branson Hills – those three particular areas are seeing developers that are just flocking here.”
Rankin said the lakefront development is the bait that attracts developers to the area.
“It starts with curiosity,” Rankin said. “They know about this area, they know about southwest Missouri, and maybe this is their second or third time back and they’re looking at investment. It all goes back to the commitment we’ve made on the Landing, and it’s just got that domino effect. As we upgrade this community with the Landing, you’re going to see pockets of prosperity throughout the community that will complement what we’ve got here.”
New developments include sorely needed residential opportunities, Rankin said, adding that new development does not neglect what made the city famous.
“It’s more diverse development, but it’s certainly going to complement the tourist base that we have here,” he said. “You bring in people who didn’t have the Branson area on their radar screen, and you give the opportunity for our faithful tourists to come back and see some of the new things that are going on.”
Rankin said the city is optimistic about its long-term outlook because of the nature of current growth.
“I think you’re going to see more of a long time frame when it comes to growth, rather than a spike or boom that came and went so quickly and left some of the market still trying to develop after some of the need had already left,” Rankin said. “This one’s going to be slower, and it’s also going to help parts of Taney County and parts of Hollister.”
Branson officials also announced that the city has hired Dallas-based C&C Engineering Inc. to conduct plan reviews and inspections at the new lakefront development. The $538,000 contract, for which Branson Landing developer HCW will reimburse the city, runs through July 2007.