OWENSBORO, KY (WFIE) -
We reported earlier about the opening next week of the new Menards Mega store in Owensboro.
Officials say it's just the beginning, they expect continued growth along Highway 54.
"You see increased traffic. Increased business out on 54 and that's a good thing for the entire community because money spent there finds its way to other parts of the community," said City Manager Bill Parrish.
The newest major development right beside the bypass is Menards, set to open on May 8th.
"It comes under the concept of clusters and what happens is when a major business moves in, it draws other businesses," Parrish said.
"We've seen quite a big increase in businesses just the past couple weeks actually loading product into the store. We're getting all their truck drivers. We're getting all of their employees for breakfast and for lunch. We have hired some extra in anticipation of becoming quite busy," said Valerie Dexter, who works nearby.
City leaders say Menards is just the start of the 54 development.
"The intent is a four phase opening in that area with Menards being the base phase. I think we're going to see more restaurants. I think we're going to see more convenience things," Parrish told 14 News.
"I believe it's just going to boom out here. I'd like to see a lot more going on in this area," Dexter said.
"Owensboro's convenient and it's new. Drawing more people from the southern and eastern side of the county and even outside of the county to shop in this community," said Parrish.
Menards will open its doors at 6:30 a.m. this coming Tuesday, May 8th.
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