Morganton permits drop as February spending slows

Morganton’s construction activity slowed sharply in February, with total permit values dropping nearly $5 million from January — a sign of month-to-month unpredictability even as commercial investment continues to dominate.

The city recorded $2.82 million in permitted construction last month, down from nearly $8.8 million in January.

While residential projects accounted for the largest number of permits, commercial construction made up nearly 75% of the total value, underscoring where the biggest financial bets remain.

The average worth of a commercial project was about $82,000, but a $1.4 million investment at Marquee Cinemas downtown stood out from the rest. The work includes electrical work and renovation of several screening rooms, the lobby, and exterior painting.

Residential projects accounted for $640,000 in value, and had a smaller average cost at $14,000. The largest residential project was the construction of a new single-family home for $225,000.

Government and institutional projects added another $382,450, with several upgrades at Western Piedmont Community College. Those additions include $328,000 for new HVAC in a classroom building, control tower, and more. Another $54,000 was reported for more mechanical and plumbing work at the college’s Vine Arden Road property.

Notable projects:

• The Union American Grill: $250,000 for upfit, demo, and re-roofing of the future home of the new restaurant at 112 W. Union St., which is owned by Cranford Hospitality.
• Diamond T Jewelers: $15,000 for the remodeling of two new bathrooms to be ADA compliant at the store’s 210 N. Sterling St. location.
• Five Below: $22,500 for the installations of a fire alarm system and 13-camera CCTV system at the store, which is expected to open this spring in place of Joann Fabric at E132 Morganton Heights Blvd.
• Calvary Baptist Church/Day School: $30,000 to replace the 15-ton split air conditioning system at 407 S. Green St.
• Mini-warehouse: $15,000 to add a water line from the meter to the building at 506 E. Fleming Drive, which is being developed into mini-warehouses and self-storage units for lease, according to Wendy Smith, director of development and design services.