Branson/Tri-Lakes News: Branson construction falls 13% in 2008

The city of Branson saw a 13 percent decline in new construction values in 2008 but still eclipsed the $100 million mark.

New construction finished the year at $102 million but down from $117.9 million in 2007. It was the fourth year in a row that new construction topped $100 million, according to a news release. At its peak in 2006, construction totaled $215 million.

City officials are pleased with last year's total in light of national economic troubles, the release said.

More than 62 percent of the year's new construction was permitted in the first six months. February raked in the most, with $18.4 million in building permits issued.

Three large apartment developments - Turtle Creek on State Highway 248, Village Green on Shepherd of the Hills Expressway and Ridgecrest on Bird Road - began in 2008, together adding 420 housing units. Other major projects permitted in 2008 included the Hampton Inn on Branson Hills Parkway; the Shrine of the Holy Spirit attraction on Expressway Lane; Books-A-Million, Bed Bath & Beyond, and Best Buy in Branson Hills; Castle Rock Water Park on Green Mountain Drive; and reconstruction of Pointe Royale Golf Course.