Winter 2018 Construction in the Ozarks

Editor’s Note
The 28 projects below represent more than $257 million in building costs and 1.4 million square feet of new construction, additions and remodels. But more than that, they paint a striking picture of growth and change.

But the industry is not without its challenges. At a news conference held last month at an active construction site downtown, Sean Thouvenot of Branco Enterprises Inc. cited state data that showed the construction industry has slid by 1,000 jobs this past year to now employ 122,300 people in Missouri as of August. For an industry that contributed $11.4 billion toward Missouri’s gross domestic product in 2017, it’s imperative we keep interest in this field for our future workforce.

While the noise and road closures from active construction might make a short list of downsides, the benefits stack a mile high. Today, when I see construction, I’m reminded of the jobs and economic stimulus they provide.

I hope you enjoy this special coverage.

—Christine Temple, Features Editor