Sikeston sees record year for construction in 2008

SIKESTON, Mo. — Residential construction in Sikeston was down in 2008 but thanks to a record year for commercial construction, this year's total construction figures are more than three times larger than last year's.

"This year was a banner year for us on the commercial side," said Collin Cecil, code enforcement officer for the city of Sikeston.

In 2007, there was a total of $5.1 million in residential construction and $8 million in commercial construction in the city.

Residential construction this year is less than half of last year's at only $2.1 million.

The total for commercial construction in 2008, however, is the highest ever for Sikeston at $39.7 million.

"We had three big ones," Cecil said of commercial construction projects. "Progressive Farm Credit, Missouri Delta Medical Center and Orgill. Those were the top three."

Progressive Farm Credit is building a 7,200 square foot facility at 1116 North Main.

MDMC completed a major remodeling project on the third floor and has begun remodeling its second floor and basement.

The most significant commercial construction project not only for 2008 construction cost totals but for Sikeston ever is the 800,000 square foot distribution center being built by Orgill at the Sikeston Business, Education and Technology Park.

Trey Hardy, community redevelopment coordinator, said he is hoping the city's cooperation with Orgill will demonstrate to other businesses looking to expand in or relocate to Sikeston how the community welcomes business.

In addition to all the local contractors city officials are already used to working with, there have been many out-of-town contractors working this year in town as well, Hardy noted.

"They have seen how easy we are to get along with," Cecil said. "I hope other endeavors go as smoothly."

Other major commercial projects this year include a 3,500 square foot building for Mid America Outdoors.

"That's a Kubota lawn mower dealership," Cecil said. "They were over on Campanella and decided to build their own facility."

The fast food industry also contributed to this year's commercial construction boom in Sikeston.

"Taco John's relocated," Cecil said. "And there is a new Burger King which is located directly behind the current Burger King. They are building a new, modern facility."

The new Taco John's, a 2,000 square foot building, is being built at 1409 East Malone.