The Billings Planning and Community Services Department issued its 2016 annual report, saying residential construction in Billings during the first 11 months in 2016 decreased by about 25 percent from the same period in 2015, but a strong year in commercial construction kept builders and the people who issue construction permits hopping.  The report outlines services provided to residents and firms in Billings, Yellowstone County and Broadview.
The department’s director, Wyeth Friday, said that while construction has been performing below last year’s activity levels for the last few months, overall building valuation for 2016 was about $20 million above the 2015 level.  Through November, the Building Department issued 297 single-family dwelling permits, about 100 fewer than last year.  However, 61 commercial buildings were permitted during the first 11 months of 2016, according to building official Brian Anderson.  That includes 32 permitted projects with a valuation in excess of $1 million, including two hotels.

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