North County enjoys benefits of economic growth

By Tony Mathews

The Florissant Valley Chamber of Commerce recently hosted a media reception to spotlight the tremendous economic growth in the North County area.

Highlighted were 27 new commercial developments totaling nearly $1.2 billion, and 29 residential developments that will bring 1,500 new homes into the area. Three exciting projects in development are the Splash Universe Hotel and Water Park, the Nature Lodge at Sunset Park and the improvements being made to Highway 367.

The Splash Universe Hotel and Water Park at the St. Louis Mills mall will be a great, family-friendly venue for the North County community. This $50-million facility will feature a 130-room hotel, conference center, salon, day spa, indoor water park, ice cream parlor and restaurant.

The Nature Lodge at Sunset Park will be a year-round learning center for area students. The 2,500-square-foot lodge will be built near the park's center on a scenic hilltop. It will be a place where schools, Scout troops and conservation groups can learn about the environment through programs and activities. The lodge also will be available for private rentals.

The second and third phases of the Highway 367 improvement project between New Jamestown Road and Cold Water Creek are underway and ahead of schedule. These phases will incorporate a new bridge that will carry New Jamestown Road over Highway 367, and a U-turn ramp bridge to carry northbound Lusher Road traffic over Highway 367 to where southbound Benham Road begins.

Florissant Valley is booming with growth and development. The chamber is proud to be a partner with the business professionals and community leaders who are working to promote and grow the North County region. The Florissant Valley Chamber is working to build a strong community for future generations.

For more information, call the chamber office at 831-3500 or visit http://www.florissantvalleycc.com/.

Tony Mathews is director of marketing and special events for the Florissant Valley Chamber of Commerce.