Branson secures three federal Opportunity Zones
Three areas in the City of Branson have been approved for federal Opportunity Zones 2.0 designations. The selection, announced Nov. 5 by the U.S. Department of the Treasury, offers federal tax incentives for investors interested in bringing new development, housing, jobs and businesses to our community.
On Nov. 5, Gov. Mike Kehoe announced that all 131 census tracts nominated by Missouri were approved for the federal program. Nationwide, 6,576 new Opportunity Zones were designated, including more than 2,500 in rural areas. The updated program places greater emphasis on attracting investment to these communities through enhanced federal tax incentives.
For Branson residents, the potential benefits are easy to understand: more places to live and work, new shopping and business opportunities, improvements across the city, and continued future investment.
The three designated areas include Historic Downtown Branson, the West 76 Country Boulevard corridor, and the Gretna Road and Branson Commerce Park area. With ongoing public and private projects already underway in these locations, it’s hoped the tax incentives will unlock new possibilities.
“This is a tremendous opportunity for Branson to build its future,” said City Administrator Cathy Stepp. “We have properties ready to be refreshed and businesses looking to grow. This is one more tool we can use to attract meaningful private investment that will benefit the people who live here.”
Stepp also praised the mayor and board of aldermen for their leadership in securing the designation. “Our Board deserves tremendous credit for recognizing the value of this program and working together to make sure Branson was part of it,” Stepp said. “This is another rung on the ladder to continued, communitywide economic success.”
The new Opportunity Zone designations take effect Jan. 1, 2027, and will remain in place through 2036, providing a long-term opportunity to encourage improvement and growth. More information is available on the City of Branson website at BransonMo.gov/OpportunityZones.
Where can I learn more?
The City will provide updates and helpful resources at BransonMO.gov/OpportunityZones. The page includes resource links from the Missouri Department of Economic Development, the U.S. Department of the Treasury, and the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).
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