The city is on course for significant economic growth
The city is on course for significant economic growth
David Knopick
Community Development Director
Economic development in Gardner remained positive throughout 2021. COVID, supply chain and labor issues impacted the building industry and various aspects of the planning and development process. Despite these challenges, Gardner continued to grow as private investment in the community exceeded $45 million in valuation. This investment was made through the issuance of almost 1,200 building permits, 134 of which were for new residential units. With a population of over 23,000 people and the continued residential development in all parts of Gardner, it is anticipated that the new residential growth will continue to diversify and begin to fuel further commercial interest in Gardner moving forward.
A healthy community stems from having a healthy economy,
which is why the governing body and staff have worked tirelessly over the years to bring new development to Gardner. In 2021, we strengthened our economic ecosystem from private investments, increased our housing market to accommodate our rapidly growing population, expanded and renovated existing businesses, and facilitated the opening of new ones. Our unwavering endeavor to position Gardner as a city of choice for residential and business development has helped us grow the tax base, provide access to more jobs, and offer our residents more diverse and unique services. We anticipate the fruits of our labor extending well into the future as we continue to promote the many benefits of our vibrant and progressive city.
Issued 1,172 building and improvement project permits reflecting $45.6 million of private valuation in 2021
Approximately 14 new businesses opened or are in the development stage
Approved preliminary plans for residential projects totaling 410 new single-family detached housing units; 128 new single-family attached housing units and 424 new multi-family units
Issued 1,172 building and improvement project permits reflecting $45.6 million of private valuation in 2021
Approximately 14 new businesses opened or are in the development stage
Approved preliminary plans for residential projects totaling 410 new single-family detached housing units; 128 new single-family attached housing units and 424 new multi-family units
Major projects underway
Grata Development Project
This 262-acre mixed-use development is underway at the southeast corner of 175th Street and I-35. The $200 million project will consist of 792 housing units—424 apartments, 200 standard single-family, and 168 compact single-family homes. The development agreement also includes approximately 455,500 square feet of first-class retail, restaurant, convenience store, office and service space, an anchor retailer, and limited-service hotels.
Plaza South Project
Located at 188th Street and South Gardner Road near the I-35 interchange, Plaza South consists of approximately 30 acres. The project includes 315,000 square feet of potential development in buildings of one to four stories. A mixed-use approach to this development includes large assembly, residential care, lodging, health care, personal services, food and beverage, and convenience store uses on nine parcels.
WHY GARDNER?
The city was featured on national television in all 50 states and 400 times regionally in the top 100 cities based on population. This economic development effort helped bring awareness about Gardner and showcased its ideal location for business development. If you missed it, watch the video in its entirety here.