During a report to the Grand County Council on Tuesday, March 5, Whitney said the county is experiencing “a huge increase” in commercial development – both new construction and additions to existing businesses.
Council chairman Gene Ciarus expressed surprise at such a sizeable boost in construction projects.
“Are you sure about this $16 million?” he asked.
Assured by Whitney that the number is correct, Ciarus said, “It’s about time we get something going.”
During an interview, Whitney said that hotel and motel construction accounts for most of the activity. He said he anticipates permits to construct 350 new units will be issued by the end of 2013.
The current activity is the best the county has seen “in years and years,” Whitney added.
Projects leading the way include the Inn of Moab at 100 North and 100 West, which has a projected valuation of $9.3 million for its 91 rooms, according to figures from the county. The Arches Fairfield Marriott is slated for construction north of Moab near Canyonlands by Night and Day. The facility will include 90 rooms and has a projected valuation of $6.4 million. The Marriott project will also include a private water treatment plant valued at $345,500.
The 12-unit Shields Lane Transitional Housing project is valued at $524,400.
Meanwhile, the estimated valuation of residential construction during the first quarter is down slightly from 2012, Whitney said. This year’s first-quarter projection is $2.8 million compared to almost $3.4 million during the same period last year, county statistics show.
Total building valuations for 2012 were $13.9 million for residential construction and $4.2 million for commercial projects, according to information from the county.
The county issued a total of 241 building permits during 2012. That included 192 residential permits and 49 commercial permits.
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