News Summary
Clifford Construction Company in Kannapolis is set to expand its operations as the city witnesses remarkable growth. Founded by James Clifford, the firm is transitioning from residential projects to commercial ventures to meet rising demand. With James’s extensive background in construction management and a vision for community-focused developments, the company aims to play a key role in the city’s booming construction market, driven by significant investment and revitalization efforts.
Kannapolis, NC – Local Construction Firm Plans Expansion Amid Rapid Growth
Kannapolis, North Carolina — A local construction company is preparing to expand its operations as the city experiences significant growth and development. Clifford Construction Company, established by James Clifford, is transitioning from a small-scale residential-focused business to include commercial projects, aiming to meet the increasing demand for construction services in the region.
Business Background and Leadership
Founded by James Clifford after relocating to Kannapolis with his wife Leslie, Clifford Construction initially served as a one-man grading and excavation company. The firm primarily handles smaller residential projects, such as preparing lots for new homes and resolving drainage issues. James emphasizes that his business decisions are guided by his faith, promoting transparency and integrity in every aspect of operations. His business card features a biblical verse, Romans 1:16, reflecting a personal commitment to his values.
Leslie Clifford manages marketing and administrative tasks, playing a vital role in supporting the company’s growth plans. The couple shares a vision of expanding their services to include commercial construction, leveraging James’ past experience in the sector.
Experience and Educational Background
James Clifford holds a bachelor’s degree in building science from Auburn University and a master’s degree in construction management from Boise State University. With six years of prior experience as a superintendent in commercial construction in Alabama, he brings substantial industry knowledge to the company’s expansion efforts.
Market Opportunities and Growth Potential
The growth of Kannapolis and surrounding areas has been a key factor driving expansion. The city lies along a rapidly developing interstate corridor connecting Mooresville, Charlotte, and Raleigh. Real estate development has surged as investors and builders capitalize on this growth, fostering a vibrant construction market.
The ongoing revitalization of Kannapolis’s downtown has attracted real estate developers such as M/I Homes, which plans to build a 48-acre townhome community. Other developments aim to deliver community-centered living options, emphasizing accessibility and local amenities.
Since the revitalization initiatives began in 2015, over $700 million has been invested into downtown Kannapolis, resulting in the construction of more than 350 residential units and numerous commercial ventures. Additionally, the city has welcomed over 40 new restaurants and shops, enriching the local economy.
Economic Factors and Industry Trends
The city’s economic transformation from its textile mill origins to a hub for advanced manufacturing, biotechnology, and tourism is fueling new job opportunities. The population has grown significantly, from approximately 42,600 in 2010 to over 63,000 in 2025, reflecting a robust local economy and increasing housing demand.
The construction industry nationally faces a labor shortage, which creates additional opportunities for local contractors like Clifford Construction. James is actively networking with commercial developers, organizing meetings and responding to inquiries about new project bids to establish a foothold in the commercial sector.
Challenges and Strategic Focus
Expanding into commercial projects presents challenges, including managing larger-scale operations and maintaining quality standards. James intends to balance this growth by continuing residential work, which helps foster relationships within the community and supports homeowners. He advises residential clients to prioritize transparency and clear written agreements, especially on larger projects, to avoid misunderstandings.
City Development Initiatives
The ongoing development efforts in Kannapolis aim to increase housing options to attract families and individuals, supporting the city’s overall growth strategy. Local government initiatives focus on creating new housing developments to accommodate this demographic increase and to sustain economic expansion.
As Kannapolis continues its transition into a diverse economic center, local builders like Clifford Construction are positioning themselves to meet the increasing demand for residential and commercial projects, thereby contributing to the city’s vibrant growth trajectory.
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Additional Resources
- Salisbury Post: Local Construction Company Works to Put Faith First During Expansion
- Charlotte Observer: Business News
- Business North Carolina: Community Close Up
- Spectrum News: From Textile Town to Research Hub
- QC News: Business Owners Upset in Kannapolis Concession Stand Debate
- Wikipedia: Kannapolis, North Carolina
- Google Search: Kannapolis construction boom
- Google Scholar: Kannapolis development
- Encyclopedia Britannica: North Carolina
- Google News: Kannapolis NC construction
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RALEIGH STAFF WRITER The RALEIGH STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERERaleigh.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Raleigh, Wake County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the North Carolina State Fair, Raleigh Arts Festival, and the Hopscotch Music Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Raleigh Chamber of Commerce and Visit Raleigh, plus leading businesses in technology and education that power the local economy such as Red Hat and NC State University. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAsheville.com, HERECharlotte.com, HEREGreensboro.com, and HEREOBX.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into North Carolina's dynamic landscape.
