Independence Bass Pro finally getting some neighbors

INDEPENDENCE, Mo. - The Bass Pro Shops in Independence, Mo., is finally getting some neighbors.

Construction is set to start on a Stoney Creek Inn and Conference Center in May on the area of vacant land near the Bass Pro Shops at I-470 and U.S. Highway 40.

For years, the Falls at Crackerneck project has been better known for its financial problems and approximately 200 mostly-empty acres.

City officials said the hotel and conference center is much needed -- and a longtime coming.

“It's a positive move in the right direction and with this economy, those have been few and far between,” said Robert Heacock, Independence city manager. “But we're excited about the move we're seeing."

"We've been incapable of getting this deal reeled in while clearly, there has been demand for a hotel in that vicinity," added Jason White, a former Independence City Council member.

The Stoney Creek Inn is expected to open in spring 2014.