Invermere
Golf is growing in Invermere
New recreational and residential developments are in the works
Business is booming in Invermere. The community recorded an all-time high of roughly $49 million in construction values last year and Mayor Mark Shmigelsky thinks 2008 is looking equally good.
“We will be forecasting fewer units this year, but similar value,” he said.
The New Green: The Ridge—a new 18-hole course at Copper Point Golf Club—offers a par 62, Masters-style course with full-length par threes and par fours.—photo courtesy Copper Point Golf Club
While much of the construction taking place this year is in fact ongoing work in established residential developments such as CastleRock Estates, Invermere is also seeing a brand new project with the construction of Vista del Lago, a condominium complex being developed by Calgary-based Stoneset Equities Ltd.
“It’s great from our point of view because it is a huge project for the downtown and it will be important to the long-term financial viability of the community,” said Shmigelsky.
Copper Point Golf Club, a resort located near Invermere, will also be expanding this year, with a new 18-hole course opening in May. The surrounding region is expecting to see some economic spinoffs.
“Even though it’s outside the District of Invermere and we don’t receive tax revenue from it, I think it will complement what’s already exisiting in Invermere,” said Shmigelsky.
As well, Invermere is seeing a number of new businesses opening, particularly small, locally owned services.
“There seems to be an increasing number of people going out on their own and starting businesses,” said Shmigelsky.