Branson rebuilding three years after tornado

The Hillbilly Inn and the Leisure Country Inn mark the last two remaining businesses to be restored three years after the Leap Day tornado hit Branson, according to Branson Tri-Lakes News.

The city received a demolition permit for one of the Hillbilly Inn's three buildings.

“Because it was damaged three years ago, weather has taken a toll on it,” Branson Planning and Development Director Joel Hornickel said.

Hornickel said the tornado also afforded the city an opportunity to stimulate more growth.

“The city really stepped up at the same time in 2012 and put a fast track on the (Spirit of 76) project,” he said. “While that project was on the city’s radar, it really got pushed up in response to the tornado to help with economic development in the corridor.”

Read more from Branson Tri-Lakes News.