Jacksonville’s economy is expanding significantly

Jacksonville, Arkansas – With a number of new locations popping up all over the city, business is flourishing in Jacksonville.

City officials have recently placed a strong focus on economic expansion. Success has already started to come their way, and they have great plans to maintain that momentum.

“[We] just want to continue to grow an atmosphere in Jacksonville that is attractive to businesses and young families,” said Robert Birch, the economic director for Jacksonville.

They’re already headed in the right direction with that, he said. 16 companies received their first business licenses in October alone.

“It’s exciting that that month was so significant. Birch explained, “It was a little bit of everything, from restaurants to manufacturing to some kid-friendly entertainment features like a slot car racing facility.”

He attributes the increased interest from out-of-town individuals and businesses to the recently renamed Interstate 57.

“Being on an interstate really gets on people’s radars nationwide, which is why I’ve gotten a ton of calls. However, we’re getting ready for when that’s finished so we can truly assault and expand,” he continued.

There has been more than simply business growth in the city, he noted. New homes are also being built.

“Jacksonville has consistently remained at that 29,000, so even though we might lose some here, we might gain some here. Therefore, we are not regressing. We want to surpass 29,000, reach 30,000, and keep growing, and I believe the future holds a lot of promise,” he stated.

Jason and Arlyn Fox, new business owners, expressed their pride in contributing to this expansion.

“We weren’t really sure where we were going to establish our roots after I retired from the military because I was originally from Hope, Arkansas, which is only two hours away. This was home for us because of the community’s support and that of the other small businesses,” Jason Fox said.

As they promote other local companies in the region, the Foxes have started welcoming patrons into their new restaurant, Kusina Cuisine.

“All of the help that we have received in the past few weeks. It has really been too much to handle,” he continued.

The city is now providing local companies with a $5,000 beautification award for the first time ever to assist with aesthetic expenses like parking lot pavement or landscaping.

Additionally, the Chamber of Commerce is introducing high school students to the business sector and launching a student leadership program.