The City of Humboldt is reporting "manageable" growth for 2015 when it comes to building permit numbers.

In total, 52 permits valued at $15,819,288 were purchased last year.

Director of Community Development Jennifer Brooks reports that the year was steady for growth.

"We've had a good number of applications and developments come in that we've been able to deal with in a timely matter. When the economy really picks up and there is a lot of interest and investment in the region it puts some stresses on us to make sure that we can deal with that from an administration point but also from an infrastructure point."

In a turn from a year ago, the large portion of the almost $16 million is coming from residential construction to the tune of just under the $13 million mark.

Brooks explains the strong residential values from 2015.

"Most of the investment in our residential market had to do with some major multi-unit projects such as the Silver Ridge Heights development by Bridge Road as well the Augustina condominium project by Span-West that's taking place on the north St. Elizabeth Park area of Humboldt."

A number of commercial projects helped that portion reach $2.8 million including the new MNP building as well as a new vet and medical clinics.

Brooks explains where the money goes.

"The money that does come in for developments does go back in to pay for supporting infrastructure and other services that are needed. The city operates under the philosophy that growth should pay for growth and so that money is reinvested to insure that there is clean running water, flushing toilets, and other save roads and transportation infrastructure in place."

The overall number is down about $3.3 million from 2014 but still well ahead of 2013's $11 million.

You can hear more from Brooks in her interview with Bolt FM's Clark Stork below.