Southwest Missouri News

Branson

Grant aids traffic flow

Branson and Springfield are recipients of a $1.5 million federal grant that will connect the two cities' traffic information systems to improve traveling for motorists. The project, the southwest Missouri regional Intelligent Transportation System (ITS), will develop methods by which travelers in southwest Missouri, including emergency responders, will be able to more effectively use the roadways.

In the Branson area, the ITS provides up-to-the-minute information about traffic delays and alternate routes ahead, and offers improved traffic mobility, increased access and relief from traffic congestion. The system uses radio, electronic boards, recorded phone messages and the Internet to relay the travel information.

Travel seminar offered

An educational seminar of the Student Group Travel Market will be held from 8:30 a.m.-3 p.m. Sept. 15 at the Radisson Hotel Branson.

The executive director of the Student Youth Travel Association, Michael Palmer, will discuss topics related to the $6- billion-a-year market.

The Branson/Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce & CVB is sponsoring the seminar in association with Silver Dollar City Properties, Radisson Hotel Branson, Branson on Stage Live and the IMAX Entertainment Complex. The cost is $10 per person and those interested can contact the Branson/Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce at 334-4084.

The Branson/Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce also is presenting its Business Before Hours at 7:30 a.m., Sept. 12 at the Palace Inn Hotel and Conference Center. Its Noon Networking meeting will be held at 11:30 a.m. Sept. 21 at the Stagedoor Canteen at the Welk Resort Center.

Joplin

Bank opens new facility

Webb City Bank has announced the opening of its new bank at 2230 E. 32nd St.

The branch has four drive-through lanes, three teller windows, four lenders and an automated teller machine. It will offer investment brokerage, Internet banking, trust services, fixed-rate mortgages and a variety of loans. Webb City Bank has been in business since 1882.

Hotel tax may increase

In the November election, Joplin voters will decide whether to increase the city's hotel-motel tax.

Voters will be asked to increase the tax from 2 percent to 4 percent. The increase is expected to bring in an additional $300,000 a year.

The additional tax could be used only for marketing national and international sporting events, for the beautification of entryways to the city and for special events, such as festivals or celebrations.

Even with the increase, Joplin's tax will remain competitive with other Missouri cities.

According to a survey conducted by the city of Joplin, Springfield has a 4.5 percent room tax, Branson has a 4 percent hotel-motel tax and a half-cent restaurant tax.

Neosho

Lumber store opens

84 Lumber recently opened its doors in Neosho, with a 20,000-square-foot showroom and warehouse.

The store will employ 10 to 12 full-time employees and several part-time workers. 84 Lumber was founded in the town of Eighty-Four, Penn. and has more than 400 stores nationwide.

Other area locations of 84 Lumber include Ozark and Bolivar. 84 Lumber is the largest privately-owned lumber company in the U.S.