One indicator of the Northwoods economy is reflected in the number of permits issued by counties for construction. In Oneida county, the trend was upward in 2016.
Planning and Zoning Director Karl Jenrich details why there appears to be more construction...
"....more optimism. At least people are moving forward with remodeling projects. More people purchasing lake front properties. It just seems people are moving forward with project that they may have held off since 2007-08. There is also discussion around the country about a shortage of single-family housing, so we are seeing more construction off water...."
Jenrich says in Minocqua and Three Lakes there's been an uptick in commercial construction. Jenrich says among the new businesses are auto dealerships and retail stores. He also noted the recently approved permit for the Marshfield Clinic hospital in Minocqua. If it moves forward it will provide a large increase in construction.
Minocqua had the most permits by town, followed by Three Lakes and Newbold. The city of Rhinelander had 684 permits last year, while Oneida county had just under 1,100.
