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The 76ECID and City of Branson announce the final approval of $6.2 million in state funding for West 76 improvements slated to begin in early 2025 on segments 1 and 2, from Shepherd of the Hills Expressway to Gretna Road.
Governor Mike Parson recently signed the Fiscal Year 2025 state operating and capital improvement budget bills, with $6.2 million earmarked for "all expenditures associated with the planning, design, and construction of infrastructure improvements" within Branson's 76 Entertainment District. [HB 20; Section 20.1090]
This funding comes after months of diligence, hard work, and tenacity of the region's elected representatives (Senator Karla Eslinger, Representative Brian Seitz, Representative Brad Hudson, and Representative Travis Smith) plus many others. Also critical to the effort were the 76ECID Board of Directors and various community stakeholders including business and property owners within the District, the Branson/Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce, and the Taney County Partnership.
"The 76ECID Board of Directors is immensely grateful for this show of support from our community and the State of Missouri," said Ann McDowell, communications liaison for the 76ECID. "This project is one of Missouri's largest public-private economic development efforts. With help from many supporters and advocates along the way, we were able to show that our proven, revenue-producing, community-supported project was worth this sizeable investment."
The 76 Entertainment District revitalization project was launched in 2012 when the City of Branson prioritized improvements to West Highway 76 during a comprehensive planning process. A conceptual master plan, approved in 2014, established pedestrian safety, visual appeal, business success, and utility undergrounding. The first segment, completed in 2022, extends mid-corridor from Presley's Country Jubilee to the Branson Ferris Wheel.
"It's important to remember the significant role that tourism in the Branson region holds in Missouri," said Mayor of Branson and 76ECID Board Member, Larry Milton. "Missouri Division of Tourism reports show us among the top destinations in the state. By working together, our Branson area partners are helping both Branson and the State of Missouri grow and prosper."
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