JACKSONVILLE, Ark. — In Jacksonville, business is booming with several new spots that have been opening up in the city.
Recently, city leaders have put a big emphasis on economic growth. They've already begun seeing success and have big plans to keep that same momentum going.
"[We] Just want to continue to grow an atmosphere in Jacksonville that is attractive to businesses, attractive to young families," explained Robert Birch, the Jacksonville Economic Director.
He said that they're already on the right track with that. In October alone, 16 businesses got their first-time business license.
"That was a big month, and that's exciting. It was everything from some entertainment aspects for kids with a slot car racing facility and to restaurants to just some manufacturing, so a little bit of everything," Birch described.
He credits the newly named Interstate 57 for drawing in more interest from people and companies from out of town.
"I've received a ton of phone calls, because that really gets on people's radar nationally, of being on an interstate. But we're preparing ourselves for when that is done, to really be able to attack and grow," he added.
He said that the city hasn't just been seeing business growth. New housing is going up too.
"Jacksonville has always stayed at that 29,000 you know, we may lose a few here, we gain a few here. So it's not like we're going backward. We want to crack that 29,000 mark, get up to 30,000, and continue to grow, and I think the prospects look very good going forward," he said.
New business owners Jason and Arlyn Fox said this growth is something they're proud to be a part of.
"[With] me being originally from Hope, Arkansas, just right down two hours down the road, we didn't really know where we were going to plant our roots once I retired from the military. The support from the community and from the other small businesses, this was home for us," Jason Fox said.
Now the Foxes have been welcoming customers into their new restaurant, Kusina Cuisine, all while supporting other local businesses in the area.
"All the support that has been shown to us over the last couple of weeks. It truly has been overwhelming," he added.
Now, for the first time ever, the city is offering a $5,000 beautification grant to local businesses to help with cosmetic costs like landscaping or paving parking lots.
The Chamber of Commerce is also starting a student leadership program with high school students and introducing them to the business community.
More information about the grant can be found by clicking here.