By Tara Hagan www.theobserver.ca The Observer
Construction activity in Sarnia has already surpassed last year’s numbers, proving the local economy is weathering the storm, said Mayor Mike Bradley.
“Last year was one of our record year’s, and now we’ve already passed it,” he said. “It’s a real tribute to our local economy. It’s more balanced.”
According to the latest building permit statistics, a total of $95.9 million in permits were issued in the first 11 months of this year, up from the 2008 total of $94.7 million.
While the single-family dwelling numbers are down, the number of rental units was up significantly, Bradley said.
A total of $3.7 million worth of projects were started in November.
That’s down from the previous month’s figure of $12.1 million, and a slight drop from $5.4 million the same time in 2008.
But a red-hot September — $25 million in construction activity — kept the overall pace on track.
“This is actual money being spent here,” said Bradley. “So for us to surpass last year, despite these difficult times, is tremendous. And we still have a few more prospects.”
Projects in a holding pattern include a $6.9-million Country Inn and Suites hotel and a $1.8-million Pineview Home for Seniors — both on Exmouth Street.
Meanwhile, several other projects remain on the books, awaiting approval, including the construction of a new, $1.7-million boilermakers’ training centre at Business Park Drive, and a $1.1-million fabrication shop addition at Lamsar on Plank Road.
Observer Article ID# 2203595
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