Firm that designed Joplin mall high school receives $351,000 loan from state

(From State Treasurer Clint Zweifel)

Corner Greer & Associates, Inc., a Joplin based architectural firm, has received a $351,000 low-interest Missouri Linked Deposit Program loan from State Treasurer Clint Zweifel (ZWY-ful). The loan is being used to refinance the purchase of its new location, allowing the business to increase cash flow and continue to expand. It will save the business an estimated $26,000 over the next five years should it choose to take out loans for that period. Corner Greer & Associates currently has nine full-time employees.

“The Missouri Linked Deposit Program is dedicated to helping the City of Joplin continue to grow and heal by providing the support its local businesses like Corner Greer & Associates need,” Treasurer Zweifel said. “Every time I visit Joplin, I am inspired by the commitment of small business owners and lenders to this community. They have built new locations, redone old buildings, provided services and support to one another that will ensure Joplin’s success.”

Established in 2009, Corner Greer & Associates, Inc. combines more than 30 years of knowledge and experience. The architectural firm has played a large role in the rebuilding of Joplin following the May 2011 tornado. The firm designed the temporary Joplin High School and is now designing the new Joplin High School and Franklin Technical Center.  It has worked closely with Freeman Hospital and is now working on the Beacon of Hope Memorial. Other current projects include the Joplin Aquatic Center, the new Elks Lodge, an addition for Brothers Bezold & Associates Optometrists, Children’s Haven and The Docks Apartments. Corner Greer & Associates has designed projects in Kansas, Missouri, Oklahoma and Texas.

“We are committed to Joplin and continue to help our fellow business owners and families rebuild this city,” said Doug Corner, co-owner of Corner Greer & Associates, Inc. "Immediately following the May 22 tornado, our firm was assigned to the renovation of a former Northpark Mall retail space for 1,200 Joplin High School students. This ultra-fast-track project was completed in time for returning students, in just 55 days. Treasurer Zweifel’s Missouri Linked Deposit Program and Commerce Bank have proven to be great partners for us, helping us reinvest in our business and community as we grow.”

Commerce Bank partnered to make the loan.