Oxford Sees Construction Boom as Growth Continues
It’s an exciting time for Oxford as the city experiences a noticeable uptick in construction and development. If you’ve been out and about lately, you may have noticed an increase in traffic, and it turns out there’s good reason for that! The number of permits issued for residential and commercial construction has soared, signaling that more people want to call Oxford home or invest in its flourishing economy.
A Look at the Numbers
To give you the full picture, let’s break down the stats. In 2022, Oxford issued 414 residential construction permits. Fast forward to 2023, and that number jumped to an impressive 559 permits. Commercial construction, too, has experienced an upward trend, increasing from 99 permits in 2022 to 120 permits in 2023. It’s clear that demand is on the rise!
What’s even more astonishing is the total amount spent on construction projects. In 2022, the cost was around $159 million, but this figure skyrocketed to approximately $346 million in 2023! This dramatic increase is indicative of not only the growing interest in constructing new buildings but also the rising costs associated with construction.
Permit Fees Fuel City Funds
Permit fees collected have also seen a significant bump. In 2023, the city received $1.6 million from permit filings, increasing from $846,000 in the previous year. These funds help support city projects and infrastructure, enhancing the quality of life for both residents and visitors.
Reasons Behind Growth
So, what’s driving this construction boom? According to Oxford’s City Planner Ben Requet, several factors contribute to the growing interest. The University of Mississippi’s vibrant sports scene, renowned A-rated school district, and popular local events such as the Double Decker Arts Festival make this city a desirable place to live and work. Plus, who wouldn’t want to enjoy the charming ambiance of Oxford’s historic downtown Square?
Spending on the Rise Too!
But it’s not just construction that’s booming! Residents and visitors are also spending more while enjoying everything Oxford has to offer. From July to December of 2023, the sales tax revenue generated from local businesses reached an impressive $7.2 million, up from $6.8 million during the same period in 2022. This increase in revenue shows that the economy is healthy and people are actively participating in our local businesses.
The food and beverage tax also experienced a jump, increasing from $2.32 million in 2022 to $2.37 million in 2023. Additionally, hotel and motel taxes rose significantly, going from $380,723 to nearly $523,000 over the same time frame. These numbers not only show increased tourism but also highlight Oxford as a choice destination for travelers.
What’s Next for Oxford?
With all these exciting developments, one can only guess what the future holds for Oxford. As new buildings are planned and erected, the community continues to grow and evolve. Whether you’re a long-time resident or a newcomer, there’s definitely a buzz in the air about what lies ahead for this beloved city.
Keep your eyes peeled, Oxford! The changes happening around us are just getting started, and it’s thrilling to be part of this journey.
Author: STAFF HERE OXFORD WRITER
The OXFORD STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREOxford.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Oxford, Lafayette County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Oxford Film Festival, Double Decker Arts Festival, and University of Mississippi football games. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Oxford-Lafayette County Chamber of Commerce and the University of Mississippi, plus leading businesses in education and retail that power the local economy such as Ole Miss Athletics and Square Books. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Mississippi's dynamic landscape.
