Construction activity is well ahead of last year's pace in the city of Steinbach.

From January 1st to June 30th, there were 96 total dwelling units added, worth $19 million. The total value of all permits issued was $34.4 million. By comparison, there were 37 total dwelling units added during that same stretch a year ago, worth $8.6 million. And, the total value of all permits added during that time was $13.1 million.

Funk says the city had a very good month for building permits in June. There were 10 dwelling units added, worth $2.1 million. The total value of permits issued last month was nearly $4 million. The list of permits last month included eight for decks and six for pools. There was $1.8 million worth of commercial permits.

"Commercial has been very strong all year," says Funk.

Funk notes Steinbach continues to grow, even though lot inventory is low. However, that might soon change. At the City of Steinbach council meeting July 20th, first reading was given to rezone land within Hampton Village. This is the final phase of a multi-phase residential development, which will see the creation of 30 single family lots.

"We're very excited for that," he says. "Those lots will hopefully come on the market for next year and that will give thirty more lots."

Funk says the city is looking at other developments as the inventory of residential single family dwellings is one area that is currently lacking.

"But the rest of the town is booming," he says. "Commercial is alive and well and doing well."

With all of this activity during a pandemic, Funk says this shows that there is a lot of confidence right not in our local economy.

"We have a strong local economy because our residents and the surrounding area have chosen to do local business and that's why businesses are doing well," says Funk. "And when businesses do well the community does well."