The Greater West Plains Area Chamber of Commerce announces, after 25 years on Jefferson Avenue, the relocation to new office space in the building that formerly housed the Greater Ozarks Center for Advanced Technology is underway.
Touted by chamber officials as a “fresh start for business growth,” the move to 397 Jackie D. Garrett Drive represents the organization’s commitment to fostering West Plains’ vibrant business community.
“Moving our offices to the space at 397 Jackie D. Garrett will allow us to continue to strengthen our strategic partnerships, along with providing ample support to our members and new businesses to the West Plains area,” said chamber board Chairman Eric Gibson. “We are currently experiencing a great momentum in West Plains, and this move will enhance the opportunity of the greater West Plains area.”
The new office space provides a modern environment with ample meeting and parking space and serves as the gateway to West Plains’ historic downtown, entering from the south, pointed out Executive Director Jessica Collins.
While the move is in progress, the Jefferson Avenue office is closed. Doors will open at the new location for normal hours on May 20.
Plans to repurpose the GOCAT building as chamber offices were first announced in August following city council approval. Classes that were held by Missouri State University-West Plains in that facility had already been moved to the Terry “Bo” Pace Advanced Welding and Fabrication Technology Program within the main campus footprint on Broadway at the time. The university plans continue to use training space for small business development, City Planning Director Emily Gibson told the council at their August meeting.
The finalized plans came after months of discussion between MSU-WP, the city and the chamber.
“The Greater West Plains Area Chamber of Commerce is committed to empowering our members and providing them with the resources they need to succeed,” said Collins. To that end, she said, in the future, the new location will offer a dedicated coworking area for nonprofit organizations, improved access to technology and hosting capabilities for business events.
Chamber board member Joe Kammerer noted the change is the result of years of planning: “The move marks the realization of a vision set in motion years ago, as the new chamber office stands as a testament to the unwavering teamwork and commitment of our chamber board. Through their dedication and foresight, coupled with the diligent execution and transformative remodel by our chamber staff, we've created a space that embodies our community's spirit by providing ample room for collaborative partnerships and new opportunities.”
Chamber officials say they look forward to celebrating the momentous milestone with members and the West Plains community.
A ribbon cutting ceremony and open house will be held in June, specific dates to be announced.
“This event will be a fantastic opportunity to network with fellow business professionals, tour the new space and learn more about chamber initiatives,” shared Collins.
For chamber updates and progress reports on the chamber’s transition into its new space, follow @wpmochamber on Facebook or visit wpchamber.com.
