The value of construction permits in 2012 is about 32 per cent higher than last year’s total.
As of Dec. 1, the City recorded $347 million in construction value, up $84 million from last year’s $264 million.
“Obviously, the economic and investment climate has improved in Alberta over the past two years,” said Mayor Peter Brown. “Airdrie is a great place to start a business and a tremendous place to live and raise a family.
“Much of our success can be contributed to our economic development team, they have done a tremendous job promoting Airdrie showcasing our advantages and more importantly have let the business community know the City of Airdrie is open for business.”
Residential construction value totalled $244 million, up from $175 million in 2011. There were 700 houses, 112 duplexes, 456 multifamily and 170 town homes built in 2012.
“This was the year of multifamily,” said Kent Rupert, Airdrie’s economic development team leader. “We haven’t seen this much multifamily since 2007.”
Non-residential construction values totalled $88 million, up from $77 million in 2011, while commercial and industrial construction values came in at $41.5 million.
The City’s three new schools, which the province started construction on this year, were valued at $46.5 million.
New businesses were added to the growing number in Airdrie including London Drugs, Reitmans, Chatters Hair Salon, Scotiabank, Harvey’s, Burger King and Mucho Burrito in the Sierra Springs development.
In King’s Heights, the new businesses included the Lube X, Toad ‘n’ Turtle Pubhouse & Grill, Home Hardware and a new strip mall. Construction also began on an Esso/Tim Hortons on the Run.
In the downtown area, Air 106 FM – DiscoverAirdrie.com and Waves Coffee House, as well as a Mexican, Vietnamese, Korean and Sushi restaurant were built.
Construction of Genesis Place Phase three was started and a new RCMP/Municipal Enforcement building was completed.
Rupert said he expects 2013 to be a good year.
“With the continued growth in both Airdrie and the north Calgary region we will expect another good year in 2013,” he said. “We are optimistic and planning for continued investment into Airdrie on both the industrial and commercial side of things. Residential growth will continue to be strong with the major projects potentially coming to Airdrie and in the Balzac region.”
Brown said he is cautiously optimistic about the new year.
“With the provincial budget experiencing such a huge deficient I believe municipalities could be subject to some cutbacks,” he said.
“Obviously, my hope is that will not happen, however, it’s always prudent to plan for the worst case scenario and hope it does not happen. I also believe… Airdrie will continue to see significant growth in our commercial and industrial sectors and residential development to continue on a steady pace.”
