It's been a monumental start to 2016 on the industrial side of things for the Town of Okotoks.

Construction values are at an all-time high.

Economic Development Manager Shane Olson says it's an impressive stat for the Town.

"When we look at our industrial construction values for the 1st quarter of 2016, it has reached the highest level in a decade," he says. "So we are at $8 million in construction values in this first quarter and we've never seen that."

Olson says the numbers say that Okotoks is becoming more than just a town to live in but a better opportunity for business.

"Industrial values are really huge for Okotoks it's showing that we're starting to diversify our workforce and creating jobs in our community for people here so they can stay and work. Often people move to the community knowing they're commuting but over time they really wish they could work here."

He adds by saying the location of Okotoks and its proximity to everything has really helped grow the industrial side of business locally.

"Quality of life is really big, Okotoks is a desirable place, we have mountain views we're close to Kananaskis. There's a lot of great restaurants, shopping and dining people can do here so it's that full package lifestyle. Free parking in downtown, no line-ups to a lot of the stores so all of those things sound simple but they really add to overall quality of life."

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