Positive activity in the construction industry

St. Johns County Building Services Division reports to Historic City News that they are continuing to track a recent rise in permitting activity through their division.

After experiencing an unprecedented decline in the construction industry, the County is now observing increases in many areas, most consistently and notably in single family permits.

According to a letter from the County Administrator’s office, St. Johns County averaged 103 single family permits, each month, from May through October; a total of 619 permits during the six-month period.

“This average far exceeds most jurisdictions throughout the State”, said St. Johns County Administrator Michael Wanchick.

Although commercial permitting peaked in June of this year, the months of July through October have been steady.

Since recording unusually low permitting numbers early in the year, the County has experienced an up tick in smaller projects such as additions, renovations, screen enclosures, pools, and decks.

Wanchick gave his impression saying, “This positive activity leads to cautious optimism that the recovery is under way.”

Photo credit: © 2009 Historic City News photographer Kerry McGuire