Some major projects in Jackson

While many areas of the country are suffering real declines in construction and a loss of jobs, our region has been faring quite well.

We congratulate the city of Cape Girardeau on an outstanding project with the Isle of Capri. The activity associated with the construction of the project is certainly good for the economy in our region. However, the creation of about 400 jobs when the casino is completed will have a more long-lasting effect in the region.

While not as grand as the Isle of Capri project, many projects in Jackson have been completed -- or nearly completed -- that will serve our city well.

Delmonico's has a beautiful new facility conveniently located off I-55 near Center Junction.

After extensive renovations, the new Hickory House restaurant opened on East Jackson Boulevard.

McDonald's is undergoing renovations and an expansion.

Mercato di Rhodi, a new, beautifully designed Rhodes convenience store, has just opened on East Main Street.

The last phase of the renovation of Jackson High School has been completed and a new multi-tenant commercial building is under construction on East Main Street.

Several major subdivisions have been completed with phases three and four of Savannah Ridge West and phases three, four and five of Jackson Ridge Estates. Both these subdivisions have additional phases to come in the future.

Bent Creek Subdivision, phase six, and the Meadows at Oak Creek are in progress.

The city of Jackson has three major projects in progress. Old Orchard Road, the city's outer road connecting Center Junction to East Main, still has a small amount of paving and the installation of a stop light before it is completed.

The satellite fire station on Old Orchard Road next to the water tower is also nearing completion. This much-needed fire station will add six new fire personnel and greatly enhance our ability to respond to fires, medical assists and other emergencies. This project should be completed in late February or early March.

If you drive on U.S. 61/North Hope Street, you can't help but notice the large structure going up in the city's North Industrial Park. The building is to house an expansion for Nordenia. This project will bring with it 50 jobs. Because of the addition of these jobs, the city received a Community Development Block Grant for public infrastructure additions that are currently in progress.

We are fortunate in Cape Girardeau County that we have business expansions and new construction going on. These help to keep our economy moving at a steady pace.

Barbara Lohr is the mayor of Jackson.