MERIDIAN TOWNSHIP - Over the past year, Meridian Township has seen a significant increase in construction value.

At the end of August, business construction value was at $19 million compared to $9 million last year. The value of all new construction investment in the Township is currently at $43.5 million.

The total is derived from the cost of materials, labor, and time to build new structures including commercial and residential properties.

"I think its an indicator of vitality in the community," said Peter Menser, Meridian Township Associate Planner. "It's something to look at, it doesn't tell the complete story of how everything is in the community, but it's certainly something to lock on to in terms of investment in Meridian Township."

He also added that when new businesses come into the area it creates a great spin off, encouraging other businesses to also join the area.

"You know Whole Foods actually has been a really big spur because we've seen now over the last couple of months 3 new businesses on Northwind Drive which is just what would be down the street from where the new whole foods is going to be and its just a general level of excitement," said Menser.

Menser said that he expects numbers to increase next year as new businesses are expected to be completed in 2015.