CORNWALL – The head of city’s economic development department says Cornwall continues on a strong path of growth.
“Fantastic year. Growth in all sectors. The economy remains strong,” Division Manager Bob Peters summed up before a crowd of 300 at Galaxy Cinemas Wednesday morning during the Team Cornwall Year in Review.
As of the end of November, building permits were issued for $35 million in construction – eight per cent more than 2017.
“Building permits have increased which is also a good indication of ongoing growth. The year’s not done yet,” Peters said.
In the residential sector, a number of subdivisions were built this year. Looking ahead to 2019, RMP Construction will start the 55-unit New Bell Tower as part of the next phase of the Cotton Mill Lofts in the Cotton Mill District. The former East Front Public School site is being also being developed into a 58-unit riverfront retirement center with townhouses also on the site in the second phase.
On the commercial side, expansions are planned in 2019 for the Shoppers Drug Mart and the Benson Automotive tire distribution centers in the Cornwall Business Park. Agri-food yeast maker Lallemand, which operates in 29 countries, has bought the former Sensient Flavors plant on Wallrich Avenue. “They are renovating and retrofitting that facility and plan to be in production in the second quarter of 2019,” Peters explained.
For industrial work, the year included $1.5 million in renovations for the Sacred Heart Catholic School on Cumberland Street and $700,000 at St. Peter Catholic School on Second Street East.
The one hour presentation also focused on small business expansions, local achievers and various community events.
This was the 21st year for the Team Cornwall Year in Review.