BRANSON, Mo. -- "Plato's Cave," which gives migrant workers a place to live in Branson is expanding it's reach in 2019. Now, even more people will be welcome to live there.
The 423-room project on the old Days Inn on Keeter Street, just off the Branson Strip, was launched back in May.
Managers at Plato's Cave talked about how business went in 2018 and what's new for 2019.
One of the biggest changes being made at Plato's Cave in the new year, is they're making room for the locals.
"We are starting renovations on two of are buildings, to turn them into 168 studio and one bedroom apartments for local people who work in Branson."
Jaime Shears, General Manager for Plato's Cave, says they've had time to get the plan together for residents in the city.
"A lot of the places around here, like the extended stays, they charge a lot," Shears said, "Our studios will start at $495..one bedrooms, $695."
She says their migrant workers housing went well overall, but transportation issues became a challenge --so they've also come up with a plan to help remedy that in 2019.
"We have actually partnered with a company to provide transportation. It will be unlimited rides, to and from work...shopping, pleasure -- and it's going to be for a low price weekly," said Shears.
"It's a lot of people coming from many countries to work in the hotels here in Branson...and for us, the most bigger challenge is the transportation," said Sonia Nontalvo, a worker from Puerto Rico, who lives in Plato's Cave.
Although Nontalvo is about to move -- transportation assistance will come in handy for her after all.
"I love Branson. I come here to work for seasonal job..and now they offer me an opportunity to stay for 9 months next year..so I come back," Nontalvo said.
Affordable housing for the locals, will be launched in February.
